These masks, known for their distortion and asymmetry, are one of the oldest kinds of art in southwest Alaska.

A couple from Hazelton, B.C., says an unusual discovery while purchasing a boat in Mexico has instilled them with a sense of destiny for an upcoming round-the-world sailing trip.

The carving events themselves run from Feb. 14 to March 1 — weather permitting — and are divided into a few different categories. According to Ice Alaska’s Executive Director John Kohler ...