Born 1951, Uppigavialuk, NU

Davidee Uppik is a celebrated Inuk artist from Sanikiluaq (Belcher Islands, NU), currently practicing in Akulivik, Nunavik, QC. Hailing from a long line of talented sculptors, Uppik’s work embodies the rich heritage and continuity of family craftsmanship, passed down across generations.

He is best known for his masterful carvings in Sanikiluaq grey argilite, a unique stone prized for its deep, lustrous tones and smooth finish. The material lends his sculptures a distinctive presence, allowing him to explore intricate details, whimsical forms, and expressive gestures that bring Inuit life and stories to vivid life. Each piece reflects both tradition and individual vision, capturing movement, character, and the spirit of his subjects.

Uppik’s early life was shaped by resilience and adaptation. Following the forced relocation of his family from the Flaherty Islands to the South Camp of Sanikiluaq, he faced significant challenges, including navigating a new environment with limited resources. Despite these hardships, he pursued his education, attending school from 1962 to 1966, and drew on the strength and knowledge of his family to develop his artistic voice. Personal trials, including a severe back injury and the loss of his family’s sled dogs in 1969, inform the depth and sensitivity of his work, reflecting both the struggles and endurance of Inuit life.

Through his sculptures, Davidee Uppik celebrates Inuit culture, family heritage, and the resilience of his community. His pieces are treasured for their distinctive material, meticulous craftsmanship, and the sense of narrative and humor woven into every carving.