190307-13 Makah mask, EAGLE MAN by Micah James Vogel
c. 2019
Approximate Overall 22" h x 15" w
Wood Mask : 9" h x 5.5"w x 5" deep
Seen as a transformation figure, from man into an Eagle who then can fly into the Spirit World.
Micah Vogel is a master artist who specializes in Makah-style carving of masks, rattles, totem poles, and drums. Vogel began carving at the age of nine, beginning with small, simple projects. At sixteen Micah apprenticed with master carver Greg Colfax on the Makah Reservation. At twenty-two, Vogel had established himself as a professional carver. Micah Vogel believes that carving and pride in cultural traditions helps to keep youth off of the streets, providing a source of income, forming a connection with heritage, and cultivating self-esteem.
As the recipient of a 1996 Folk Arts Apprenticeship grant, Vogel taught Jazz Aguirre traditional Makah carving techniques, with steps to include roughing out, fine finishing, painting, and making hair for masks and head dresses. Aguirre and Vogel are first cousins who grew up together and often refer to one another as brothers.