Born in 1935 (Baker Lake, Nunavut) – Passed away in 2015

With over fifty years of experience in sculpture, Tuna Iquliq (also known by the names Donat, Toona, Quallier, Erkolik, Ikuulik, Erkoolik, and Erquluk) established himself as one of the most respected and influential Inuit artists of his generation. A true master of his craft, Tuna was particularly renowned for his abstract, rounded sculptures of human figures—an artistic style that showcases both exceptional technical skill and profound artistic sensitivity. However, his talent extended beyond human forms; Tuna also delighted in sculpting iconic Arctic animals such as muskoxen, birds, and bears, capturing their essence with poignant realism and meticulous attention to detail.

Throughout his career, Tuna Iquliq skillfully conveyed both the strength and grace of his subjects, infusing each piece with a palpable sense of movement and emotion. His ability to create forms that are both abstract and expressive reflects his deep respect for Inuit culture and his desire to communicate the Arctic way of life through his art. Each sculpture is carefully carved and polished, revealing the subtle textures and nuances of the stone—a material emblematic of Inuit sculpture.

A significant aspect of Tuna’s legacy is his commitment to passing on his knowledge. Passionate about teaching, he dedicated much of his life to instructing his children—Johnny, Louie, and Camille—in the art of sculpture. All three have become acclaimed sculptors in their own right, ensuring that Tuna’s artistic legacy continues to thrive and enrich the contemporary Inuit art scene.

Tuna Iquliq’s exceptional talent garnered recognition far beyond Inuit or Canadian circles. His work has been showcased in numerous prestigious international exhibitions across North America, the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom. These exhibitions played a crucial role in establishing Tuna’s reputation as an artist whose sensitivity and technical mastery transcend cultural boundaries.

Today, Tuna Iquliq’s sculptures are exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors of Inuit art. His works are part of prestigious collections worldwide, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Dennos Museum Center, the Canadian Museum of History, the Eskimo Museum in Churchill, the Museum of Anthropology in British Columbia, among many others. The rarity and exceptional quality of his pieces make them prized additions to any collection and contribute to Tuna’s enduring legacy in the world of Inuit art.

Tuna’s artistic legacy lives on not only through the pieces he created but also through the influence he had on his children and the broader Inuit art community. His ability to blend abstraction with realism, tradition with innovation, continues to inspire contemporary artists and captivate art enthusiasts around the world. Through his sculptures, Tuna Iquliq honored the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Inuit while playing a pivotal role in the evolution and global recognition of Inuit art.