Mayoreak Ashoona (1907–1984) was a prominent Inuit artist known for her distinctive carvings and prints. She was born in the community of Cape Dorset, located in Nunavut, Canada. Ashoona was an influential figure in the Inuit art movement, which gained international recognition in the mid-20th century.
Ashoona's work is celebrated for its detailed and expressive representations of Inuit life and mythology. Her carvings, which often include animals, figures, and abstract forms, reflect the rich cultural heritage and traditional stories of the Inuit people. She was a key contributor to the development of printmaking in the Arctic, working alongside other renowned Inuit artists and contributing to the establishment of the West Baffin Eskimo Co-operative, which played a crucial role in promoting Inuit art.
Her art has been exhibited in various galleries and museums across Canada and internationally, and her works are part of numerous public and private collections. Mayoreak Ashoona’s legacy continues to influence and inspire contemporary Inuit artists and art enthusiasts around the world.
