Marc-Andre Fleury unveils “Native American Heritage mask”

The Chicago Blackhawks needed some help on the public relations front and in comes Marc-Andre Fleury, one of the most beloved players in the sport of professional hockey, to save the day.

On Sunday morning the Blackhawks unveiled Fleury's brand new goalie mask and it will be one that will pay homage to the franchise's roots and the origins of the Chicago Blackhawks name. It is being called a "Native American Heritage mask" and regardless of what name you want to give the thing there's one thing that is patently obvious, it is one of the most stunningly beautiful goalie masks you are ever going to see.

The mask has been designed by Ojibwe artist Patrick Hunter and it was not only designed to pay tribute to the Blackhawks name, but also to Fleury's family as well. In a statement released by the superstar goaltender, Fleury discusses how the Native American roots in his wife's family made him want to do something special for Native American Heritage Month with the end result being this beautiful piece of art.

"My wife's family is of Abenaki and Mi'Kmag descent, and I wanted to do something special to recognize and celebrate Native American Heritage Month. I was lucky enough to work with Native artist Patrick Hunter on a special edition mask, and I love his design, especially the inclusion of the flowers and the feathers."

The feathers on the front and the way they contrast beautifully with the black shades on the mask are my favorite part of the design as well but I can see why Fleury, who is nicknamed "Flower", would be partial to the flowers in the design as well.

Here's a look at some photos of the mask released today by the Blackhawks:

The Blackhawks also released a short video that gives you a closer look at some of the finer details of the mask and does a good job highlighting some of the deeper meanings behind the design elements chosen by Patrick Hunter. All in all a great work of art and I hope we get to see more work like this in the National Hockey League very soon.