U'mista Cultural Society

The Potlatch Gallery

Image of the south side of the Potlatch Gallery showing a collection of potlatch regalia mounted against the wall. Image of the south-west corner of the Potlatch Gallery showing a group of masks. Image shows a darkened corner of the Potlatch Gallery with a group of Numaml masks on the left. View of the North wall corner towards the centre and south wall of the Potlatch Gallery.

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Nułamał – Fool Dancer

Colour photograph of Nułamał – fool dancer shot against a black background

In earlier times, the Fool Dancer enforced the strict rules of the Potlatch, hitting guests with clubs or axes if they did not behave properly. The most recognizable feature of the Nułamał is his huge nose which he is very self-conscious about. When the Nułamał is seen in potlatches today, he pretends to throw the mucus that is constantly flowing from his large nose on guests.

Owner: Arthur Bondsound, Kwikwasut´inuxw (Gilford Island)

Owner: Hiłamas, Hiłamas, "Captain John" Speck, Ławit´sis (Turnour Island)

Owner: Iwakalas, Harry Hanuse, Mamalilikala (Village Island)

Nułamał

A Nułamał or fool dancer, clown like expression, enormous downturned nose, red nostrils and lips, black markings with cedar and hair trim.
A Nułamał or fool dancer, thin long face, comical expression, very large hooked and upturned nose with long nostrils.
A Nułamał or fool dancer exaggerated nose with additional projection near bridge; large nostrils painted red; moustache and goatee painted black.