Masks

Nimpkish Ridicule Mask
Wayne Alfred (Kwakwaka'wakw)

Portrait Mask
Derald Scoular (Salish)

Octopus Mask
George David (Nuu-chah-nulth)

Octopus, also known as Devilfish, is a sea spirit helper known for its transformational abilities...

Octopus, also known as Devilfish, is a sea spirit helper known for its transformational abilities. It is a crest in the Tsimshian Eagle clan and symbolizes wealth in Kwakwaka’wakw mythology.

Sun Mask
Vern Etzerza (Tahltan)

Sun is generally a symbol of life and creative power. Usually male, Sun is often depicted as a po...

Sun is generally a symbol of life and creative power. Usually male, Sun is often depicted as a powerful supernatural chief. Sun is usually depicted with a rounded humanlike face surrounded by long rays, sometimes shells or copper is used to emphasize brightness.

Bakwas Mask
Edwin Neel (Kwakwaka'wakw)

Bakwas is the Kwakwaka’wakw name for a supernatural being who lurks on the edges of the forests a...

Bakwas is the Kwakwaka’wakw name for a supernatural being who lurks on the edges of the forests and near streams, hoping to lure the souls of those who drown or unwitting humans to eat his ghost food, which causes them to become otherworldly, like him. He is the Wild Man of the Woods, the Keeper of Drowned Souls, and children are taught to be wary of him. Those souls captured by Bakwas are condemned to eternal hunger, misery, wandering and evildoing.

Raven Moon Mask
Reg Davidson (Haida)

Moon is associated with peace and transformation and is also widely regarded as a protector and g...

Moon is associated with peace and transformation and is also widely regarded as a protector and guardian spirit. In some stories, the Moon originated as a chip of the Sun, which Raven broke into pieces. Moon is often depicted with humanoid features and can be distinguished from the Sun by a labret in its bottom lip indicating female nobility. 

Hawk Moon Mask
Reg Davidson (Haida)

Hawk is often associated with the Sun and is revered for its superior vision and skill in hunting...

Hawk is often associated with the Sun and is revered for its superior vision and skill in hunting. In mythology, this bird is personified as the transformation beings Hawk Man and Hawk Woman.Moon is associated with peace and transformation and is also widely regarded as a protector and guardian spirit. In some stories, the Moon originated as a chip of the Sun, which Raven broke into pieces. Moon is often depicted with humanoid features and can be distinguished from the Sun by a labret in its ...

Articulated Portrait Mask
Corey Moraes (Tsimshian)