Tlingit Basket by Preston Singletary

Preston Singletary (b. 1963) is a Native American glass artist. He is perhaps best known for his use of glass to express and explore traditional Tlingit themes. Many of his works reference clan crests, including the killer whale, which his family claims. Singletary has worked extensively with other native artists creating glass art works such as the Founders Totem Pole (2001) and Devilfish Prow, one of a series created in collaboration with Maori artist Lewis Tamihana Gardiner (2007). Some critics view Singletary's work as not truly Tlingit, because he works in glass rather than more traditional materials, like wood. But Singletary sees himself as "transforming the culture and forging new paths," which he believes should be allowed."