Hunter Statue with Spear This fossilized whalebone statue is hand carved by Inupiaq native Richard Olanna of Shishmaref, Alaska. Like most residents of Shishmaref, Richard lives a subsistence lifestyle, hunting for his food.He has been carving for quite a number of years.He is the son of Elliot Olanna and learned his carving skills from his father.Whalebone carving is an old art form that has been known to exist in Inupiaq culture for over 2,000 years.Like his father, Richard’s work can be found in museums and galleries, and is sought after by collectors.