Photo by Paul Scannell/courtesy Mavis Muller
Hundreds of Salmonfest participants braved the rainy conditions on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2016 in Ninilchik, Alaska to send a clear message of support and solidarity for clean water and for wild Alaskan salmon with an aerial group photo which was lead by Homer artist Mavis Muller.
A circular design created with recycled fabric depicted a river flowing through a yin yang design. A procession of colorful percussion performers and a Chinese dragon-style salmon puppet named Queen Marine moved up and back down the fabric river. All participants merged into the fabric river behind the puppet as they exited the rodeo arena and joined a parade that moved through the festival grounds. Muller also lead the construction of the puppet and the handmade percussion instruments.
“Art is communication,” Muller explained. “With our creativity we can heighten awareness. We can inspire new possibilities and have fun doing it.”