In the NHL, goaltenders are celebrated for their remarkable saves and reflexes, and for their uniquely painted masks. These masks often tell a story, hold personal meaning, and showcase the creativity of talented artists. As the 2024 NHL playoffs heat up, let’s explore the paint schemes of the four remaining starting goalies, uncover the personal significance behind their designs, and credit the singular artist who brought these masterpieces to life.
Igor Shesterkin – New York Rangers
Artwork courtesy of DaveArt.com
Paint Scheme: Igor Shesterkin’s mask is a stunning tribute to the New York Rangers’ storied history. The design prominently features the Statue of Liberty, symbolizing the team’s iconic Liberty logo and surrounded by blue and red accents that represent the team’s colors.
Personal Meaning: Shesterkin’s mask honors the city of New York and the legacy of the Rangers. The Statue of Liberty signifies freedom and resilience, embodying the spirit of the city and its people. By incorporating the team’s colors, Shesterkin connects himself to the franchise’s storied past and its passionate fanbase.
Artist: The artist behind Shesterkin’s mask is Dave Gunnarsson of DaveArt, renowned for his detailed and innovative mask designs. Gunnarsson’s ability to blend historical elements with modern aesthetics makes Shesterkin’s mask a true work of art.
Jake Oettinger – Dallas Stars
Artwork courtesy of DaveArt.com
Paint Scheme: Jake Oettinger’s mask features a bold design that incorporates the Dallas Stars’ iconic logo and colors. The mask displays a large, fierce star with team colors. The backplate and side of the mask includes personal touches, tributes to his family, friends, love of golf, and his journey in hockey.
Personal Meaning: Oettinger’s mask symbolizes his pride in representing Dallas. The star and team colors highlight his connection to the franchise, while personal elements show his appreciation for his loved ones’ support and path to the NHL.
Artist: Oettinger’s mask is also created by Dave Gunnarsson, whose expertise in capturing the spirit of a team and star goalie is evident in this dynamic and visually striking design.
Sergei Bobrovsky – Florida Panthers
Artwork courtesy of DaveArt.com
Paint Scheme: Sergei Bobrovsky’s mask for the Florida Panthers features a design that combines the team’s fierce panther logo with elements of Florida’s vibrant culture. The mask showcases a roaring panther with palm trees and sun rays in the background, all in the team’s colors of red, blue, and yellow.
Personal Meaning: Bobrovsky’s mask connects him to the identity of the Panthers and the sunny, vibrant atmosphere of Florida. The roaring panther symbolizes the team’s strength and determination, while the palm trees and sun rays highlight the unique culture of the region.
Artist: The artist behind Bobrovsky’s mask is also Dave Gunnarsson, known for his ability to bring a team’s logo to life through his imaginative and detailed designs.
Stuart Skinner – Edmonton Oilers
Artwork courtesy of DaveArt.com
Paint Scheme: Stuart Skinner’s mask showcases a vibrant design that reflects the Edmonton Oilers’ legacy and the energy of the team. The mask features the iconic Oilers logo on one side, with oil droplets and a rugged texture that symbolizes the team’s hardworking ethos. The chin displays the Alberta skyline, connecting Skinner to his team’s province.
Personal Meaning: Skinner’s mask represents his pride in playing for the Oilers and his connection to Alberta. The oil droplets and rugged design elements reflect the team’s history and blue-collar work ethic, while the Alberta skyline showcases his roots and personal pride in his heritage.
Artist: Stuart Skinner’s mask is painted by David Gunnarsson, whose talent for capturing the essence of a team and its heritage shines through in this powerful and culturally significant design.
Conclusion
The masks of the NHL’s remaining playoff goalies are more than just protective gear; they are canvases that tell a story and reflect the personal connections of the players to their teams and cities. Through the artistry of Dave Gunnarsson, these masks become iconic symbols of the goalies’ identities and the spirit of the playoffs. As the chase for the Stanley Cup continues, keep an eye on these stunning pieces of art that add an extra layer of intrigue to the game.