Born April 15, 1946 (Chantrey Bay, Nunavut)

Uriash Puqiqnak currently resides in Gjoa Haven, Nunavut, where he continues to play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Inuit art. Born into a family deeply rooted in artistic traditions, Uriash grew up surrounded by talented artists. His brothers and father-in-law, Nelson Takkiruq, are renowned sculptors, recognized for their skill and significant contributions to Inuit art. His sister, Mary Porter, specializes in creating intricate wall hangings, while his other brother, Leo Hummituq, has established himself as a skilled jeweler. Uriash’s wife, Lorraine, is also an artist, as is their son Wayne, ensuring that the Puqiqnak family’s artistic legacy continues to thrive across generations.

Uriash Puqiqnak is best known for his basalt stone sculptures, which capture characters full of joy and remarkable expressiveness. His work has been instrumental in defining the distinctive style of Gjoa Haven and is now celebrated worldwide, with pieces exhibited in prestigious galleries across Canada. Uriash’s sculptures often depict dynamic figures engaged in everyday Inuit life, imbued with warmth and subtle humor that reflect the resilience and spirit of his community. His unique style combines intricate detail with a deep sense of movement, bringing each character to life with striking realism and vitality.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Uriash has been a significant figure in politics, serving as the mayor of Gjoa Haven and as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut from 1999 to 2004. During his political career, Uriash worked tirelessly to develop and enhance programs that support handcrafted Inuit art while combating the influx of counterfeit sculptures into the market—efforts critical to preserving the authenticity and value of Inuit art. His passion for both his culture and the arts fueled his advocacy, where he championed policies to sustain and celebrate Inuit artistic traditions.

In December 1989, Uriash traveled to Ottawa to meet with the board of the Inuit Art Foundation, marking a pivotal moment in his career and reinforcing his commitment to promoting Inuit art on a national level. His dedication to both his art and his community was formally recognized on July 29, 2005, when he was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada—one of the country’s highest honors. This accolade celebrated his outstanding contributions to Inuit art and Canadian culture.

Today, Uriash Puqiqnak continues to inspire new generations of Inuit artists while actively pursuing his artistic career with the same passion that has defined his work from the beginning. Through his sculptures, Uriash not only honors the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Inuit but also plays a vital role in the evolution and global recognition of contemporary Inuit art. His work serves as a bridge between tradition and modernity, ensuring that Inuit stories and artistry continue to captivate audiences around the world.