Born February 15, 1951 (Baffin Island, Nunavut)

Jaco Ishulutak began his journey as a sculptor at the age of sixteen, inspired by watching his grandfather work. Over the years, he has honed his skills, creating medium-sized sculptures from a variety of materials, including wood, walrus ivory, fossilized whale bone, and, most notably, soapstone. The artistic spirit runs deep in Jaco’s family—his mother, Elisapee, his brother Lazalusie, and his sisters Rosie and Jessie are all active artists in Pangnirtung and Iqaluit, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the Inuit art community.

Jaco’s work predominantly focuses on traditional Inuit themes, with his favorite subjects being Inuit people, birds, and walruses. These motifs are central to Inuit culture, reflecting the community’s close relationship with nature and the Arctic environment. Jaco prefers to sculpt these subjects using soapstone or walrus ivory, materials that allow him to express the fluidity and movement characteristic of his work. His sculptures capture the essence of his subjects with remarkable attention to detail and a deep sense of cultural authenticity.

Although Jaco has also explored drawing and jewelry making, he has chosen to focus on sculpture, as it offers more financial stability. Despite moving away from these other art forms, his commitment to preserving Inuit traditions through sculpture remains unwavering.

Jaco Ishulutak’s sculptures are celebrated for their dynamic forms and meticulous craftsmanship. He skillfully balances traditional Inuit artistic methods with his unique perspective, creating pieces that resonate with both Inuit and global audiences. His work often depicts moments of everyday life, the natural grace of Arctic wildlife, and the resilience and spirit of the Inuit people.

His remarkable pieces have been recognized internationally and are part of prestigious collections, including the Amway Environmental Foundation (Michigan), the Laurentian University Museum and Arts Centre (Ontario), the Brousseau Inuit Art Museum (Quebec), the Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum (Maine), and Global Affairs Canada. This widespread recognition underscores Jaco’s significant contribution to Inuit art and his role in preserving and promoting Inuit cultural heritage through sculpture.

Through his art, Jaco Ishulutak continues to honor his ancestors while engaging new audiences with the depth and beauty of Inuit traditions. His work serves as a bridge between past and present, bringing the stories, values, and spirit of the Inuit people to the world with each carefully carved piece.