Sylvester Ayek

Sylvester Anaiyuk Ayek (born 1940) is an Iñupiaq artist and sculptor. He's a native of King Island, Alaska and has his art displayed in museums across North America. While Ayek specializes in ivory and wood carving, he's particularly interested by unconventional materials and non-traditional carving techniques.

Early life Sylvester Ayek, born in 1940, In conversation with other artists, Ayek has mentioned the limitations imposed by the audience's perception of traditional and Indigenous art.

Untitled Mask This traditional mask draws inspiration from a historical design before the 20th century. The art showcases the wide array of cultures and artistic styles across Alaska’s Indigenous communities. It's located in The Alaska Gallery under the section titled "The Eskimo".

Ivory Right Whales in the Round Eskimo Art This ivory carving is sculpted from a walrus tusk. The fine carving depicts a group of whales with a negative space in the center of the sculpture.

Filmography