Snow Owl Carving by Bryan Amos, Cup'ig

Snow Owl Carving, 2023 by Bryan Amos, Cup’ig Culturewood, pigment10.5” high x 11.5” wide x 10” deep This carving was inspired by the traditional spirit masks of Nunivak Island. The central figure of the spirit mask represents a “spiritual universe” or ellanguaq where animal spirit beings dwell. The artist has taken the central figure of a spirit mask, and created a contemporary sculptural carving. This piece represents a snow owl in its actual form. Bryon Amos Artist Statement “My father was Walter Amos (1920-2002). He was a driftwood mask maker, ivory mask maker, harpoon maker, and boat builder. My mother was Nona Amos (1926-2003). She was a basket weaver and created traditional regalia out of fur and sealskin, such as mukluks and seal gut parkas. I create art in honor of my father and mother. I was born on Nunivak Island in Mekoryuk, Alaska. I have been a driftwood mask and figure maker, and walrus ivory and stone carver for over 45 years.” - Bryon Amos, 2023