Komokwa (Chief of the Sea) Mask by Kevin Cramner, Kwakwaka’wakw

Komokwa (Chief of the Sea) Mask, 1992 by Kevin Cramner,  Kwakwaka’wakw First Nationred cedar, cedar bark, copper, abalone20” high x 19” wide x 6” deep Kwakwaka’wakw artist Kevin Cranmer was born June 22, 1967 in Alert Bay, British Columbia, but has lived all but four years of his life in Victoria. Cranmer’s first artistic experience came as a small boy when he would accompany his father to Tony Hunt’s original Arts of the Raven Gallery. It was during these times watching his father and other artists at work that the seeds of interest were planted that would lead to the many artistic endeavors that would follow. His first formal instruction came under the tutelage of his cousin George Hunt Jr. After a time, Cranmer approached master carver Tony Hunt to further his understanding of traditional Kwakwaka’wakw design. During his time with the “Raven Arts,” Cranmer observed and worked along side of such renowned artists as Tony Hunt Sr., Tony Hunt Jr., and Calvin Hunt. His first carvings con