Artwork copyright Robert James Schoppert. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Robert James Schoppert. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Robert James Schoppert. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Robert James Schoppert. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Shaman Frog Mask, 1991

Robert James Schoppert
(American | Tlingit, born 1947, died 1992)

Location: Garfield Elementary School, Olympia

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Influenced and inspired by Eskimo and Tlingit (Native Alaskan) artistic traditions, artist Robert James Schoppert created Shaman Frog Mask as an exploration of the modern context of his Tlingit cultural identity. Using fragmented imagery, abstraction, and vibrant colors, this piece highlights the Shaman's vital role as a healer and spiritual leader within the community. Schoppert noted: "the image of the frog in Shamanic usage symbolized an opening to the spirit world."

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Olympia School District.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Artist Robert James "Jim" Schoppert (1947-1992) drew inspiration and influence from his Tlingit (Native Alaskan) heritage. He created paintings, carvings, and other artworks that articulate Native Alaskan traditions and identities, while pushing into modernism and abstraction.
Schoppert attended Anchorage Community College, before earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Sculpture and Printmaking from the University of Alaska in 1978 and a Master of Fine Arts degree in Sculpture from the University of Washington in Seattle in 1981. Schoppert taught at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) as a guest professor and gave presentations at elementary schools throughout Alaska and Washington. He was also known for his poetry and essays.