Carving
This mask of the Killerwhale clan, carved on red cedar, represents Tlingit regalia put to use in ceremony and ritual. Its sheer intricacy highlights the transformative elements of such a piece that allowed Tlingit people to harness the spirit of animals, central to their spirituality and identity. The artist, James Johnson, sees his artistry as preserving his clan’s history through the language of formline, prevalent within this mask and through making use of such a traditional technique.
Johnson, James. “Killerwhale Clan hat,” carved Killerwhale clan
mask on red cedar wood, 2020. James Johnson Native Art. https://www.jamesjohnsonnativeart.com/masks.
James Johnson, Tlingit, Eagle Killerwhale clan, “Raven Staff”, n.d.
The carved staff, with the utilization of abalone, operculum, and yellow cedar, depicts a formline crest design of the Raven clan of the Tlingit people. Ceremonial staffs act as power symbols, representing cultural and individual identity and history. The employment of various natural resources to make a piece outside of Johnson’s own clan demonstrates his goal to honor tradition and support the extensive Tlingit culture.
Johnson, James. “Raven Staff”, carved staff of yellow cedar, abalone, and operculum, n.d. James Johnson Native Art. https://www.jamesjohnsonnativeart.com/sculpture.
Alison Bremner, Tlingit, “Yáa Kháa Kootéeyaa”, 2018.
Traditionally carved totem pole, depicting Bremner’s clan, Raven, in the top half and her grandfather holding a thermos in the bottom half. This pole was raised by the house Bremner’s grandfather built, carrying on the custom practiced by Tlingit peoples for tens of thousands of years. Bremner is considered the first Tlingit woman to carve and raise a totem pole, demonstrating the simultaneous adaptability and continuity of Native culture.
Bremner, Alison. “Yáa Kháa Kootéeyaa,” red cedar totem pole with latex paint, 2018. Alison Bremner Tlingit Artist. https://alisonobremner.com/portfolio/yaa-khaa-kooteeyaa/.