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At midcentury, approximately 20,000 Inuit were semi-nomadic
hunter-gatherers, struggling to survive on the rim of the Arctic Ocean. A
chance encounter led to an artistic explosion, which has produced stunningly
sophisticated sculptures and graphics. Over the next fifteen years, the
Inuit moved to permanent settlements, and art emerged as an important
element in Inuit society.
Differences in local stone contributed to the development of a variety of
regional carving styles. After stone carving was firmly established, other
media were adopted by the Inuit, who produced powerful graphics in the form
of prints and textile works.
Subject matter preferences varied from community to community. Realistic
depictions of scenes from daily living co-exist with sculptures inspired by
an animistic and shamanistic tradition, as well as with sculptures that draw
on Christian spirituality. The whole body of work represents the triumph of
imagination, creativity and determination over a fierce environment.
Click here to see sculptures
Click here to see prints
Click here for artist name search
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Osuitok Ipeelee, Owl with arctic hare
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