Alexander Gorbunkov’s creative method: the experience of co-working of professional artist with Chukchi and Asian Eskimo bone carvers in the 1930s

The article is devoted to the work with the Chukchi and Asian Eskimo folk craftsmen, carried out in the early 1930s by Alexander gorbunkov, an artist, art critic and a representative of the research Institute of the Art Industry. Under gorbunkov’s supervision Chukchi and Asian Eskimo walrus ivory carving moved to a qualitatively new level, turning from a simple seasonal souvenir making into an independent permanent production, acquiring distinctive stylistic features that remain in the folk art of Chukotka up to nowadays. Based on the diary of gorbunkov, the author explores the methods of interaction between the professional artist and Chukchi folk craftsmen, practiced in the walrus ivory carving workshops.