Framed Indigenous Art Appraisal

Hawk by Alvin Adkins (Framed Print)

This item is a framed serigraph or limited edition print by Indigenous artist Alvin Adkins, depicting a stylized hawk in the Northwest Coast art tradition. The artwork predominantly features a palette of black, red, and white, which are characteristic colors in this art form, often associated with specific meanings and tribes. The design of the hawk itself is highly stylized, incorporating ovoids, U-forms, and formlines, which are fundamental elements of Indigenous Northwest Coast art. The hawk's head is prominent with a strong beak and eye, while its body and wings are rendered with a series of interlocking and flowing shapes that abstractly represent its anatomy. A smaller, beak-like element appears above the hawk's principal head, possibly indicating a secondary spirit or another element within the composition. The print is presented under glass within a simple, reddish-brown wooden frame, likely made of a stained hardwood, featuring a clean, rectangular profile. The artwork appears to be printed on a cream or off-white paper or cardstock. Two handwritten markings are visible on the lower section of the print. On the left, partially obscured, is what appears to be the title of the piece, possibly "Hawk." On the right, the artist's signature, "Alvin Adkins," is clearly legible, confirming the creator as a known Indigenous artist. The overall condition of the print appears good, with no obvious signs of significant damage like tears, creases, or excessive fading from the visible image. The colors are vibrant, suggesting good preservation. There might be some subtle dust or minor wear on the frame consistent with age and display, but nothing that detracts significantly from the artwork. This piece reflects a contemporary execution of traditional Indigenous art principles, making it a valuable example of cultural preservation and artistic skill. The quality of the lines and color application indicates professional printing, likely a serigraph (screen print) given the flat, bold colors and crisp edges of the forms.