Born August 21, 1973 (Iqaluit, Nunavut)

Isacie Petaulassie was born in Iqaluit the capital of Nunavut, now residing in Kinngait (Cape Dorset) which is considered the epicentre of Inuit art. From a young age, he proved himself to be a very promising sculptor. Coming from a family of talented artists, he inherited a strong technical ability, which lead him to develop his own personal and recognizable style. Known for his dancing bears that are joyfully well-fed, Petaulassie’s signature style evokes a beautiful sense of enchantment and endearment.

As a child, Isacie would observe the techniques of his maternal grandfather Latchaulassie Akesuk, a well-known master carver, who carved birds in a distinctive style. At about age 16, he would help his grandfather filing and sanding works in progress. Latchaulassie showed him how to use the axe and hacksaw, the tools for carving in the early days.

Petaulassie studied fine arts & crafts, including metalwork at the Nunavut Arctic College. His graduation work is now in the collection of the Nunavut Arts and Crafts Association. With more than thirty years of experience, the artist now supports his family with his beloved bear sculptures mostly carved from serpentine stone, and sometimes white marble.

Some of his joyful plump bears are even skillfully created to have multiple balance points that allow them to stand in different positions, from a dancing upright position to a diving position, and sometimes even to third and fourth position! Isacie’s admirers love the freedom of movement his bears offer, and his execution is remarkable!

To date, Isacie has exhibited in various parts of the world, including Canada, Germany and Switzerland.