MKaye Denkewalker

After 25 years of teaching at the secondary level, MKaye Denkewalter was given the opportunity to teach metalsmithing and jewelry at East Anchorage High School.  Known until then as a fiber artist, Denkewalter moved into jewelry and quickly developed a love of the art form.  Many hours were spent trying to stay one step ahead of the students in order to develop a strong foundation in the design and the process of making jewelry.  Attending workshops outside of Alaska, including those at Haystacks, Arrowmont, Penland and the Mendocino Art Center has allowed her to bring back new and exciting ideas not only to share with her students but also to implement in her own artwork. MKaye says, “I have to create some piece of art or design everyday in order to satisfy the artist who I am and who I wish to be.”