Mask - "Nalylgalan" One Who Doesn't Know by Jerry Laktonen (Alutiiq)

Using red cedar, acrylic paint and fowl feathers, Jerry Laktonen created his version of the "Nalylgalan," or "One Who Doesn't Know," mask after studying the collection of masks from Kodiak gathered in the 1870s by Alphonse Pinart, now in France. Describing his process, Jerry says, "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."

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 August 2001 Monthly Highlight.

Mask diameter 7", with feathers 15"