April 28, 1988, Iqaluit, Nunavut

Saimaiyu Akesuk is a contemporary Inuit artist known for her bold, confident drawings and distinctive use of color and form. Although born in Iqaluit, she has lived her entire life in Cape Dorset (Kinngait), a renowned center for Inuit printmaking and carving. Coming from a family with deep roots in both the artistic and political life of Nunavut, she is the daughter of Lau Akesuk and Olayuk Akesuk, one of the first members of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut.

Saimaiyu’s artistic journey began with a moment of uncertainty but quickly became a source of pride and inspiration. “When I went to the litho shop to sell my first drawing, I was very nervous wondering if they would buy it or not. My first drawing was an image of a bird sculpture by my late grandfather (Latchaolassie). I was so proud to be paid for that drawing, and it inspired me to make more.” That moment of validation encouraged her to continue drawing, leading to the development of her unique artistic style.

Inspired by artists like Ningeokuluk Teevee, whom she met while attending a course in the Nunavut Teacher Education Program, Saimaiyu developed a distinctive approach to composition. Her works, often featuring birds, bears, and other animals, are celebrated for their bold simplicity, strong graphic forms, and vibrant yet soft color palettes. Her art carries a sense of playfulness, blending traditional themes with a fresh, contemporary perspective.

She is particularly known for her stonecut and stencil lithographs, such as The Seaweed Spirit, which showcase her ability to merge striking designs with a sense of movement and whimsy. As part of a new generation of Inuit artists, Saimaiyu continues to explore and evolve her artistic voice, bringing a modern energy to the rich tradition of Cape Dorset printmaking.