Elsipogtog workshop passes down rare mask carving teachings to the next generation of artists

Only a handful of Wabanaki artists in recent years have mastered hand-carving wooden masks, but now eight emerging Mi'kmaw artists from Elsipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick are following in their footsteps.

Throughout the month of March, these eight artists have honed their skills, guided by elders from the community and their instructor.

As they near the completion of their journey, each participant now holds their nearly complete mask in their hands, reflecting on over 100 hours of hard work. 

"It's just filled me with a lot of confidence, a lot of pride, a lot of strength," said Brant Melvin Augustine, one of the students. 

Although Augustine is no stranger to carving, having carved antlers and walking sticks in the past, this is the first time he's carved a mask under the mentorship of an instructor.

"I'm a lot more content with myself," said Augustine.

"I'm glad to be here... I'm happy I took this course."

The month began with a journey into the forest, where the group searched for the perfect tree, ultimately ending up with a beautiful white birch tree. 

Under the guidance of elders and their instructor, the group harvested the birch, offering tobacco, traditional songs and prayers, to honour the tree for its sacrifice in helping the group learn this rare traditional art form.

Each student was given a log and through careful, deliberate carving, the masks gradually took shape. Every shaving of wood, an exercise in patience, a slow unveiling of the stories within the masks. 

Katelynn Simon, the only woman in the course, said this was her first experience with carving.

She describes the depth of her work, inspired by Grandmother Willow from the movie Pocahontas.

"It just started with two lines and then eventually, every day, we pray over the mask," she said.

"I got the feeling… like, your eyes have been shut for too long."