Featured Artists: Elisapee and Jaco Ishulutaq

Mounted on the *new Craft Ontario Shop feature wall until July 7th, 2019
interested in showing on our new feature wall? read the submission guidelines

The works of mother and son artists Elisapee and Jaco Ishulutaq are defined by their connection to traditional Inuit culture. Each uses life in their community, Pangnirtung, as inspiration to highlight the importance of family life and relationships, whilst drawing upon themes of environmental and social change. Jaco’s son, Jupa Ishulutaq, is an emerging carver, continuing his family’s legacy in Inuit art.

Pangnirtung (Pangnirtuuq, ᐸᖕᓂᖅᑑᖅ) is a hamlet on Baffin Island, Nunavut, located 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of the Arctic Circle on an ancient beach in Pangnirtung Fjord at the north end of Cumberland Sound. Renowned for its traditional Inuit arts and crafts, this artistic community has a population of 1400, roughly 95% of whom are Inuit.

Elisapee Ishulutaq (1925-2018) was among the first Pangnirtung artists to produce prints. A self-taught artist, she was influenced by her upbringing in a traditional Inuit community. She drew upon her nostalgic memories of traditional life before permanent settlements. By representing images of domestic life alongside contemporary social and environmental issues, Elisapee redefined how the world sees Inuit art. In 2014, she was awarded the Order of Canada

Chasing a Bowhead Whale
Stencil 32/50
1999
$250

Winter Camp
Stencil 12/50
2000
$260

Island by Rowboat
Stencil 29/35
2005
$240

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Jaco Ishulutaq (1951-) was inspired by his grandfather to start carving from age 16 using natural materials such as bone, ivory and stone. Now a master carver, his work depicts animals, people, and family relationships, showcasing their importance in Inuit culture. In 2018, Ishulutuq was the joint winner of the Nunavut Commissioners’ Arts award in recognition of his contribution to Nunavut Visual Arts.

Narwhal
Serpentinite, ivory
$3500

Whalebone Narwhal
Whalebone
$4200

Walrus and Calf
Serpentinite, ivory
$7500

Sedna
Serpentinite
$2400