Mask - Ashik by Jerry Laktonen (Alutiiq)

Inspired by the traditions of his ancestors, Jerry Laktonen carved this mask of a shaman, "Ashik".  It is painted in brown and black, with white lines to accentuate the contrasting colors.  Three ornaments dangle from the lips, and the outer rim is trimmed with sheepskin from Iceland. It is carved out of birch.

Referring to his series of shaman masks, Jerry says, "Bold red and black design typifies Alutiiq style masks. I start from worn, faded and bare shells in museums, that hint of what the masks looked like. From clues on the relics themselves, as well as sparse written clues from early seamen from many European countries, I try to recreate the life that these masks had. The circle is a symbol of entry to the spirit world."

Jerry Laktonen is an Alutiiq artist who is reviving historic styles of masks and paddles from his Alaskan Native heritage.  For more information on Jerry Laktonen, see our Highlight of the Month for August 2001.

Width of outer rim 8 1/2", height 9"