Kakee Ningeosiaq

One original hand-carved sculpture by Inuit artist, Kakee (Peter) Ningeosiak. One narwhal pod carved out of serpentine.

Born in 1973 (Iqaluit, Nunavut)

Nunavut, Kakee has been a resident of Cape Dorset since 1993, a community renowned for its rich artistic heritage. Growing up in an environment deeply rooted in art, Kakee was naturally drawn to sculpture. He began carving at the age of sixteen, developing his skills as a self-taught artist while also learning by observing other talented sculptors in his community. His artistic lineage runs deep—both of his parents, Ningeosiak Peter and Parnee Peter, are accomplished sculptors in Cape Dorset, and his late grandfather, Jamasie Teevee, was a well-known graphic artist.

Though Kakee sculpts infrequently, his body of work is characterized by delicate craftsmanship, imaginative design, and an undeniable attention to detail. He favors animals as his primary subjects, with birds and whales being particular favorites. Kakee approaches each piece with meticulous care, especially in his choice of serpentine stone. The stone’s lustrous grain lines are thoughtfully integrated into the form of his sculptures, enhancing the sense of movement and fluidity in his animal subjects.

Kakee’s sculptures often depict animals in playful and unique poses, capturing the essence of nature’s dynamism. His whales and fish pods appear to dance gracefully through the stone, mimicking their real-life counterparts in the wild. A recurring theme in his work is the tender portrayal of wildlife relationships—such as a curious bear cub standing upright beside its mother—imbuing his pieces with warmth and a sense of storytelling.

Kakee’s work has been recognized and exhibited in prestigious venues, including Les Maîtres Sculpteurs Inuits de l’Arctique Canadien, La Compagnie du Nord-Ouest, the Sun Valley Center for Arts and Humanities, and the Arctic Wind III: An Expression of Survival exhibition, among others. Through his sculptures, Kakee continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of Inuit art, blending traditional themes with his own distinctive, playful vision.