ARTIST STATEMENT

“The mountain goat or “cag” is a special animal to the Haisla and Hennaksiala people. Throughout Haisla history, it was highly sought after for its woolen clothing and meat for nourishment. Families would hike high into the mountains to set up camps to hunt them and men would train from a young age to “master the mountains” and become skilled hunters.

I wanted to honour this relationship between the Haisla and the mountain goat by carving this mask. As a hunter, I have experienced the challenge of harvesting these animals and understand why they are so well respected. This mask will be gifted to the people of Kitamaat Village and will be put on display with their artifact collection.”

– Nathan Wilson