Darcy Kuemper’s New Mask was revealed via social media last night. Designed and painted by talented Airbrush artist David Gunnarsson of Daveart, teasers were released via the Daveart Twitter and Facebook accounts before images were released on their official Instagram.
According to their Facebook page, the design is called “The Legend is Alive,” and features werewolves. The mask looks great, displaying werewolf imagery that looks to be bursting from shredded paint. The Wild logo can be seen on either side of the metal cage. Small Minnesota Wild logos and word marks also dot the predominantly Red and White mask. Holograms, a special effect that adorns many of Gunnarsson’s masks, can be found throughout the mask. Kuemper’s nickname, “Kuemps,” can be seen over the chin plate
With a great mask painted and ready for September training camp, Kuemper simply needs a new contract. With his choice in mask art for this upcoming season, I’d like to think Kuemper fully intends to return to the Wild. If he does, he’ll join Josh Harding, who also sports a magnificent mask. Harding sported an iconic mask designed to look like a knit Toque for the 2013-2014 season.
Dec 14, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Minnesota Wild goalie Josh Harding (37) in his net in a overtime period against the Colorado Avalanche at Pepsi Center. The Minnesota Wild defeated the Colorado Avalanche in a shootout 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Sweden native Dave Gunnarsson and his staff at Daveart have created some top-notch masks for the NHL’s elite goaltenders. John Gibson, Frederik Andersen, Cam Talbot, Pekka Rinne, and Ondrej Pavelec have all sported unique masks by Gunnarsson. Featuring detail oriented, one-of-a-kind designs, Daveart masks have also been designed for commemorative events, such as the NHL Stadium Series, and Henrik Lundqvist‘s 302nd win.
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So, who has the best mask in the NHL? Kuemper? Harding? Let us know in the comments below!