Red Cedar Masks by TJ Young

Haida artist TJ Young was introduced to his cultural heritage and practices by his Grandfather Claude Morrison, who taught him how to carve halibut-hooks when he was just a teenager. Today, TJ has been carving large-scale totem poles and masks, two of which can currently be found in the gallery.

Above left is his newest red cedar portrait mask, entitled Northern Lights, with dimensions 15" x 9" x 7". The addition of birch bark and operculum shell complements the simplicity of the painted design and the grain of the wood. This mask can be viewed on our website and is available for $1,600.00 CAD.

To the right is TJ's red cedar mask Eagle Spirit, with dimensions 16" x 12" x 11". This piece is enhanced by mountain goat fur and painted copper overlays, and is available in the gallery for $1,800.00 CAD.

TJ is also a recent graduate of Vancouver's Northwest Coast Jewellery Arts Program where he studied engraving techniques under Kwakwaka'wakw artist Dan Wallace. A selection of TJ's oxidized sterling silver jewellery can also be found in the gallery. Come take a look at this young artist's creations!

Ridicule Masks

Along the Northwest Coast, the 'Ridicule' mask can be found within many cultures. This mask is easy to spot because one half is colourful and represents a human face while the other half is blackened and indistinguishable.

This design alludes to a legend about a confrontation between rivals at a potlatch: the wealthy host of the potlatch threw large quantities of eulachon oil on the fire to feed the flames, and his rival - who was seated close to the fire as an honoured guest - did not move in order to demonstrate his strength and to “save face”. This act in itself, however, also reveals the guest’s spite and stupidity. Ridicule masks and the stories that go along with them are often used during potlatches and meetings in which grievances are expressed by an individual or family.

The mask pictured here is a recent 'Ridicule' mask by young Heiltsuk artist, Ian (Nusi) Reid.