Born August 1, 1967

Cee Pootoogook is a distinguished Inuit artist from Kinngait (Cape Dorset), Nunavut. Born into a family of esteemed artists, Cee is the eldest son of Napachie Pootoogook and Eegyvudluk Pootoogook and the older brother of the renowned contemporary artist Annie Pootoogook. His lineage is deeply rooted in the artistic traditions of Kinngait, a community that has long been at the heart of Inuit art and printmaking.

Cee’s artistic journey began in the early 1990s when he started carving. His sculptures quickly gained recognition for their intricate depictions of spirits and transformations, showcasing a profound understanding of form and movement. His works reflected a deep connection to Inuit mythology, often portraying figures in a state of flux between human and animal forms. His ability to bring such dynamic compositions to life earned him a solid reputation within the Inuit art world.

In 2009, Cee made a pivotal shift in his career, transitioning from carving to stonecut printmaking. Despite being relatively new to the medium, he displayed an innate talent for the precise and meticulous nature of print editioning. His printmaking style is marked by a careful balance of space and movement, creating mesmerizing imagery that often extends beyond the confines of the page. His prints convey a sense of energy and fluidity, capturing scenes of Arctic wildlife and traditional Inuit life with remarkable detail and depth.

One of Cee’s most celebrated works, *School of Fish* (2015), exemplifies his masterful ability to depict motion. The piece features a swirling cluster of fish, their chaotic yet synchronized movement filling the composition with a rhythmic, almost hypnotic quality. The controlled chaos within his prints has become a defining feature of his work, making his pieces stand out in contemporary Inuit printmaking.

Beyond printmaking, Cee has also explored drawing, illustrating everyday community life, traditional hunting scenes, and Arctic landscapes. His drawings, like his prints, reflect a keen observation of his environment and an appreciation for the rhythms of Inuit life.

Cee’s works have been featured in the Cape Dorset Annual Print Collection since 2012 and have been exhibited across Canada, the United States, and Germany. His contributions to Inuit art have solidified his place as a significant contemporary artist, carrying forward the artistic legacy of his family while bringing his unique vision to a global audience.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Cee remains connected to his cultural heritage, engaging in traditional hunting and food-sharing practices that are integral to Inuit life. His connection to the land and its wildlife deeply informs his artistic practice, making his work an authentic reflection of Inuit traditions in a rapidly changing world.

Cee Pootoogook’s artistic evolution from sculptor to printmaker demonstrates his adaptability and dedication to his craft. His work continues to captivate audiences with its energy, precision, and cultural depth, ensuring that his artistic legacy will endure for generations to come.