Large Owl Mask with Abalone/Cedar Rope

Allen Speck, born in 1984, is a Namgis First Nations artist. He was born in Vancouver and raised in Alert Bay, a community deeply rooted in Northwest Coast carving traditions. Allen comes from a long line of master carvers and chiefs. His father, Chief Numas Lagiyus James Speck, has been an artist since childhood and learned under master carver and Chief Arthur Shaughnessy.

Growing up, Allen spent much of his time carving alongside respected artists such as Gilbert Dawson, Shane Salmon, Morris Johnny, and the late Marcus Alfred, among others. His earliest inspiration came from both his father and his brother, Gilbert Dawson.

Over the years, Allen has had the privilege of learning from many influential teachers and master carvers, including Beau Dick, Wayne Alfred and his late son Marcus Alfred, Gilbert Dawson, and the late Harry Alfred, to name just a few. Their guidance and knowledge have played a major role in shaping his journey as an artist.

Allen began carving primarily for ceremonial purposes, but over time he has returned to carving as a way of making a living while continuing to carry forward the traditions he was raised with. One day, he hopes to reach the level of mastery achieved by his teachers and proudly claim his place as a master carver in the long line of artists who came before him.     

This beautiful, very large owl mask is a must-have for any collector of Indigenous art.

Hand-painted in detail with abalone eyes and a cedar rope.

Measures: 14" x 13" x 10"