Even before the trip I was fascinated with the Native Alaskan Masks, which have been used for ceremonies and for celebration for centuries, accompanying dance rituals to honour the spirits.

I knew that I would see lots of examples when visiting the museums and galleries in Alaska. But I confess that I was unprepared (and delighted!) by the sheer number of masks, both ancient and contemporary, which I discovered.

So, below is a gallery of masks… in no particular order.

I took the photos when visiting the University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks, and the Anchorage Museum.