Born June 5 1970 (Cape Dorset, Nunavut)

Toonoo Sharky is an Inuit artist whose talent and creativity have made a significant impact on the world of contemporary Arctic sculpture. Born into a family of artists, Toonoo grew up surrounded by art. His parents, Josephee Sharky and Ragee Killiktee, were both sculptors, but Toonoo also credits his grandfather, master carver Kupapik Ragee, and his uncle, Shorty Killiktee, as major influences on his artistic approach.

Toonoo began sculpting at the age of ten but didn’t take his work seriously until he was thirteen. By seventeen, he held his first exhibition, marking the beginning of a promising career. Quickly, Toonoo Sharky established himself as one of the most remarkable and innovative young sculptors to emerge from the Arctic, recognized for his bold and unique style.

Toonoo’s work often explores whimsical and dramatic scenes inspired by Arctic wildlife, with a particular focus on birds, which have become one of his favorite subjects. The artist is known for his transformational themes, combining power and humor, and works primarily with serpentine and marble. His sculpting process is thoughtful and respectful:

“I like the colors and textures of both stones. When I start on a piece, I like to work slowly on it until it begins to take a shape I recognize. Sometimes, I simply follow the form of the stone. My favorite subjects are bird figures with human faces.”

These words reflect the intuitive and organic approach that characterizes his work.

Toonoo’s sculptures are both powerful and poetic, capturing moments that seem almost alive, where nature and imagination converge. His subtle use of texture and form gives his work a striking presence, balancing between realism and abstraction.

In 2003, Toonoo Sharky was honored with election to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts (RCA), a significant recognition of the importance and quality of his work. His sculptures are part of prestigious national and international collections, including the National Collection of Inuit and Indian Art, the Museum of Anthropology, and many more.

Toonoo continues to innovate and explore new artistic horizons while staying true to his roots and the Inuit sculptural tradition. His ability to capture the essence of natural forms while infusing them with his personal vision makes him an essential artist in the landscape of contemporary Inuit art.