Diving Bowhead Whale Ivory Carving by Darin Slwooko

Overview

Yupik artist Darin Slwooko from Gamble, Alaska, crafted this diving bowhead whale from walrus ivory. Darin expertly sculpted this diving whale figure. Darin is known for  for his carving highly polished figures. The bowhead whale has a baleen eye. The carvings has been signed by the artist. Measuring 2.6 inches high, 2.1  inches wide, and 1 inch deep, it is available for US sale only and is priced at $145.

Darin Slwooko’s Artistic Legacy

Darin Slwooko’s carvings stand out for their intricate detail and use of premium materials. Specifically, Darin’s choice of flawless walrus ivory ensured a smooth, impeccable finish on his pieces. Furthermore, the addition of baleen eyes enhances the realism and detail, making his carvings highly desirable for collectors. The Slwooko family has a number of ivory carvers.

Yupik People and Their Art

The Yupik people, mainly residing in the villages of Gambell and Savoonga on the St. Lawrence Island, excel in walrus ivory carvings. Located off the Northwest coast of Alaska, 32 miles from the Siberian coast in the Bering Sea, these villages house fewer than 1500 people. Almost all inhabitants are Yupik Eskimos, also known as Siberian Yupik, sharing a language and cultural connections with Yupik communities in Russia. Additionally, some Yupik live near the Bering Sea on the mainland coast of Alaska.

Cultural Significance of Walrus Ivory

Walruses serve as a crucial resource for Alaska Natives, providing both nutritional and cultural benefits. The meat, blubber, skin, and organs offer a rich source of food, while the hides cover boats. Moreover, the tusks, carved into intricate figures, are sold to collectors, generating income for the Yupik people. Aaron Oseuk’s carvings exemplify the high level of craftsmanship and cultural importance of walrus ivory art in Yupik society.

For more information on Alaskan ivory carvings and to explore other works, visit Tribal Crafts. Additional context on the Yupik people and their artistry can be found in the book Savoonga Ivory Carvers.