02/09/2026
“This quilt block is inspired by ‘Ellam Yua’, a Yup´ik phrase often translated as “Person of the Universe” or “Spirit of the Universe.”
To me, Ellam Yua represents everything in our world—our past, present, and future. It reminds us that we are all connected to the land, sky, water, and to one another.
The past represents our ancestors and all of the knowledge, teachings, stories, and ways of life that were carried before us. It reminds us of where we come from and honors those who made sacrifices so that our cultures and traditions could continue.
The present is where we stand today. It is how we choose to live, teach, create, and carry our values forward. It is the relationships we build, the communities we nurture, and the responsibility we have to care for the land and waters that sustain us.
The future represents the generations still to come. It reminds us that our choices today matter. In Yup´ik teachings, we are often taught to think ahead, to consider how our actions today may affect future generations and the world they will inherit.
The circle-within-a-circle design is known as ‘Ellam iinga’, or the “Eye of Awareness”. It symbolizes seeing and understanding the world around us. To me, it serves as a reminder to stay aware, stay connected, and recognize that we all have a responsibility to care for one another and the world around us.
Ellam Yua reminds me that we are all part of something much greater than ourselves.”—Nicolette (Nikki) “Quluqaaq” Corbett
The founder of Sew Yup'ik, a cultural arts initiative revitalizing traditional Yup´ik sewing practices, Corbett comes from a line of skilled seamstresses. She studies the work of her grandmothers, from the intention to the construction of each garment they made for their families. For Corbett, creative expression is a protective and healing force that strengthens identity, supports resilience, and helps sustain future generations.
Block 4 of our Quilt Along featuring Corbett’s design is now available for download. https://s.si.edu/4zOGStP
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Nicolette “Quluqaaq” Corbett (Yup´ik), Quilt Block on the theme of Our Shared Future (2026 and beyond). National Museum of the American Indian, Quilt Along, 2026.
