ABSTRACT
Masks were needed for the character Pikok/Shaman in the production The Walker in the Snow. The shaman is considered to be a supernatural being and functions as a healer and advocator for the “other world” in Eskimo society. Animal masks are used in the shaman’s enactment of myths, stories, and ceremonial presentations. Three masks were made for the production: a sea gull and two raven masks. All three were molded directly on the clay-sculptured positive molds. The example described here is the sea gull mask (Figure 7-1). Real Eskimo masks are made of wood and feathers. However, buckram, paper, and wallpaper paste were used for making these masks; as a result. the masks were lightweight, durable, and inexpensive.
