Ira “Steve” Skees (1953-2025) was born in Norfolk, Virginia and moved to Onancock on Virginia’s Eastern Shore after college. A self-taught wood carver and painter, he won numerous awards including the 2004 Ducks Unlimited Carver of the Year. When he wasn’t carving, Ira enjoyed hunting and fishing. This stylish example done in the style of Gus Wilson who was a lighthouse keeper and carver from South Portland, Maine. With hollow body, inletted neck/head, carved eyes and crest and raised wings it exemplifies the Downeast style. The paint has been purposefully antiqued to give it the appearance of a 100 year old decoy. “I. Skees” is carved into the bottom with stylized letters. Measuring about 16.5” long, it is also signed and dated 2006.
Ira “Steve” Skees (1953-2025) was born in Norfolk, Virginia and moved to Onancock on Virginia’s Eastern Shore after college. A self-taught wood carver and painter, he won numerous awards including the 2004 Ducks Unlimited Carver of the Year. When he wasn’t carving, Ira enjoyed hunting and fishing. This stylish example done in the style of Gus Wilson who was a lighthouse keeper and carver from South Portland, Maine. With hollow body, inletted neck/head, carved eyes and crest and raised wings it exemplifies the Downeast style. The paint has been purposefully antiqued to give it the appearance of a 100 year old decoy. “I. Skees” is carved into the bottom with stylized letters. Measuring about 16.5” long, it is also signed and dated 2006.
