in the shelter of his wings

Commissioned - Alaska

This functional contemporary Yup'ik Eskimo story mask is dedicated to a good friend who is instrumental in helping children with disabilities, and those who are in the foster care system throughout our region of Alaska.

Contemporary Yupik Eskimo Stylized Story Mask.  White body with light blue eyes.   Multiple hoops, feathers, and appendages.

It represents the 'Circles of Support' her organization works toward in providing a healthy environment for both children in need, and those who give care.

In the western culture the 'owl' is often attributed as an icon of wisdom...I chose the Snowy Owl, who was made by the Creator, to represent the wisdom one must choose to seek after. 

The hoops depict circles of support, and the emblems surrounding the mask represent those who are caregivers and guides:

'The Gatekeeper Advocate' - The hand raised in prayer, depicts those who listen and provide the path toward healing.

'The Mentor Advocate' - Elder ice fishing, represents those who teach us new life skills and encourage us to grow.

'The Friend Advocate' - The dancer, depicts those who come alongside encouraging us to keep moving in the right direction.

'The Parent Advocate' - The mom holding her baby on her back represents the families who share wisdom and care.


This mask is designed to be worn traditionally by the dancer utilizing a bite to hold the mask up instead of head straps.  This is carved into the back of the mask.  From the kneeled position, the dancer uses their teeth to pick up the mask.  When they rise up to begin the dance, it's as if they have transformed.

Contemporary Yupik Eskimo Stylized Story Mask.  White body with light blue eyes.   Multiple hoops, feathers, and appendages.

The Gatekeeper Advocate' - The hand raised in prayer, depicts those who listen and provide the path toward healing.

'The Mentor Advocate' - Elder ice fishing, represents those who teach us new life skills and encourage us to grow.

'The Friend Advocate' - The dancer, depicts those who come alongside encouraging us to keep moving in the right direction.

'The Parent Advocate' - The mom holding her baby on her back represents the families who share wisdom and care.

IN THE SHELTER OF HIS WINGS

Materials:

Alaskan Spruce, Basswood, Chalk Paint, Feathers, Reindeer  Fur, Synthetic Sinew, Rare Earth Pigments Gathered on Nelson Island and the Yukon River (Alaska)

Dimensions:

Roughly 32" high by 24" wide by 12" Deep

Created in 2019 | Photo Courtesy of Josh O'Donnell, owner of DiamondShoot Photography

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