Walrus Tusk with Walrus Hunter and Map Scrimshaw

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In this beautiful tusk, Daryl uses the intricate scrimshaw technique perfected by the Kingeekuk family to render a scene that celebrates the importance of the hunt and cultural links between past and present. On the far left is the Big Dipper, a clear reference to the Alaska state flag.  Moving to the right, there is a design inspired by the harpoon designs from the Old Bering Sea Era which honors those that came before.  In the center of the tusk are two detailed scenes, one of a walrus hunter mid-throw.  The other shows the river systems that flow through St. Lawrence Island (left) and the state of Alaska (right).  The native man in the middle is both connected to his land and to his past, but is also an American Alaskan.  Finally at the far right is a group of walruses, an important subsistance food of the St. Lawrence Island people.  These skillful designs come together to tell a story about the modern St. Lawrence Island Yupik man.