11" Shaaman Spirit Hunter by Uriash Puqiqnak

Inuit art: Shaaman Spirit Hunter
Inuit Artist: Uriash Puqiqnak
Size: 11" long, 10" high, 6" deep, 12.1 lbs
Community: Gjoa Haven, NU
Stone: Serpentine, antler, horse hair
id: caps-cfjjy

In purely formal terms this piece is an inspired assemblage of form and line, harmonious and really quite sophisticated.

When I saw this piece, I was immediately drawn to it. Completely captivated, and mesmerized... quite possibly from the spirit inside.

If I was to describe this piece in one word - "Timeless". It was made in 2019 no doubt, but you would never know it by looking at it. Is this a first generation, or modern avant-garde? To the beholder to decide. This piece will hold its disposition for eternity. It is "Timeless".

The foliage of hair nestled into the stone fused by the bone face bring all elements together to extenuate the highlights of the beautiful dark grey stone. This piece will no doubt garnish the chronicles on inuit art magazines and auction house covers in years to come.

Uriash Puqiqnak (born in 1946)

Uriash Puqiqnak is a master carver and politician. His works are on display in major art museums and galleries. He served as Mayor of Gjoa Haven, Nunavut and was a member of the Nunavut Legislature from 1999 until 2004. Uriash is also a board member for the Nunavut Arts & Crafts Association.

Uriash was appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada in 2005 (second highest honour for merit in the system of medals in Canada).

His son Wayne Puqiqnak is also a talented carver.