Born in 1994 (Cape Dorset, Nunavut)

Samonie is a promising young talent who started sculpting at the age of 9. He observed and learned from his maternal grandfather, Aqjangajuk Shaa, as well as his father, Isacie Petaulassie, two very well known artists. Since then, esteemed as an excellent sander by his father, Samonie often helps the latter to finish his pieces by filing and sanding sculptures. The artist spends time with Aqjangajuk to observe, help and ask questions. His style is irrevocably the result of these influences. It was his admiration for the work of his father and grandfather that inspired him so much to pursue a career as a sculptor. It’s amazing how quickly this promising young artist learned to sculpt polar bears.

When he started sculpting, the young artist also worked with Malittuk Akesuk and Qavavau Shaa. In addition to teaching him how to make inukshuks, they showed him various methods to improve certain details of his carvings.

Before he starts carving, Samonie first considers what he would like to do according to the shape of the stone. His work is dominated by fluidity and movement.