Born 1936 – Died 2003

Iola Abraham Ikkidluak was a masterful Inuit sculptor from Kimmirut (formerly Lake Harbour), Nunavut. His work was deeply rooted in traditional Inuit beliefs and the natural world, reflecting his life spent both carving and navigating the Arctic landscape. His sculptures, known for their dynamic forms and expressive details, captured the spiritual and physical transformations central to Inuit storytelling and artistic traditions.

Ikkidluak’s artistic practice centered on carving, using locally sourced serpentine, soapstone, bone, and antler to create striking depictions of Arctic wildlife and shamanic figures. His ability to imbue stone with movement and emotion made his works highly sought after. His sculptures ranged from small, delicate birds to large and imposing figures undergoing dramatic transformations. One of his most celebrated pieces, *Transformation* (2000), exemplifies his skill in depicting beings in flux, featuring a hybrid creature with the fangs of a polar bear, the antlers of a caribou, and the limbs of multiple species. Through contrasting polished and unpolished surfaces, Ikkidluak enhanced the textural depth of his work, adding to its expressive power.

Beyond his artistry, Ikkidluak was a respected land guide in Kimmirut, known for his extensive knowledge of the terrain and wildlife. His expertise was recognized by the Government of Nunavut, where he occasionally trained fishery and wildlife officers, ensuring the protection of Inuit land and traditions. His deep connection to the land was reflected in his work, reinforcing themes of transformation, survival, and the interplay between the natural and spiritual realms.

Ikkidluak’s sculptures were featured in several significant exhibitions, most notably *By the Light of the Qulliq*, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition from 1979 to 1981. His work has found a lasting home in prestigious collections, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, and the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec. His legacy was further cemented when his work was featured on the cover of *Inuit Art Quarterly* in the fall of 1988.

Throughout his lifetime, Ikkidluak remained a strong advocate for the preservation of Inuit traditions and artistic heritage. His carvings continue to captivate collectors and scholars, celebrated for their intricate craftsmanship and deep cultural significance. His contributions to Inuit art endure, securing his place as one of the most compelling sculptors of his generation.