Willie Kolola is an Inuit artist from Cape Dorset, Nunavut, hailing from a family deeply rooted in artistic tradition. Growing up in Kimmirut, a community in the Qikiqtaaluk region with a population of 389 residents as of 2016, Willie learned the art of sculpting from his father at a young age.

Recognizable for their lifelike quality and impeccable polishing, Willie’s artworks are a testament to his skill and attention to detail. He primarily sculpts using serpentine stone, sourced from open-pit mines in Nunavut. Serpentine, similar in composition to jade, poses a formidable challenge due to its hardness, requiring considerable artistic vitality to shape effectively.

Willie Kolola’s sculptures reflect a deep connection to his Inuit heritage and the Arctic landscape, often depicting wildlife and scenes from traditional Inuit life with remarkable realism. His work is celebrated for its technical proficiency and ability to evoke a sense of cultural identity and natural beauty. As a respected member of the Cape Dorset artistic community, Willie continues to create sculptures that resonate with audiences both locally and internationally, contributing to the rich tapestry of Inuit artistry.