Arctic Helix

I was inspired to create this artwork after learning that scientists have limited knowledge about narwhals and only recently recorded their vocalizations at length. My piece depicts two narwhals entwined, one framed by ice and the other by water. It is a poetic interpretation of the ongoing impact of climate change on marine wildlife.

Lyell Castonguay designed, carved, and printed this original artwork. Ink is applied to a carved wooden block and hand-pressed onto Japanese Moon Peach paper. Multiple carved blocks layer colors, resulting in a dramatic effect. The artist signed, titled, and numbered the edition in pencil below the image.