Indigenous art by Kwak'waka'wakw artist Shawn Karpes. 18" long, red cedar, hand carved and painted plaque.
This 18-inch plaque presents a vividly painted depiction of Dzunukwa, the mythical Kwak'waka'wakw monster. Shawn Karpes, a Kwak'waka'wakw artist, brings this powerful figure to life in striking black, red, and orange hues. Seated regally, Dzunukwa’s form is rendered with bold lines and vibrant colors. Known for kidnapping children, she is portrayed with her signature black skin and bright red lips, conveying her formidable presence. Dzunukwa, an ancestor of the Namgis clan, is also associated with great wealth and magical abilities, and lives in a treasure house in the forest. Karpes’s detailed painting captures the essence of this complex figure, blending fear and awe in a compelling visual narrative. The rich colors and dynamic composition make this plaque a captivating representation of Kwak'waka'wakw mythology.
