Ottokie Ashoona is a prominent Inuit artist born on December 17, 1970, in Cape Dorset, Baffin Island, Nunavut. He hails from a distinguished family of Inuit artists, being the son of Kaka Ashoona, a celebrated sculptor, and Mayoreak Ashoona, a well-known artist. His grandmother, Pitseolak Ashoona, was also a renowned graphic artist, and his uncle, Kiawak Ashoona, was a prominent sculptor. This rich artistic heritage has deeply influenced Ottokie’s work.
Ottokie learned the art of carving at a young age, with significant influence from his step-brother, Ohito Ashoona, who is also a skilled sculptor. The two often carved together, sharing a style that reflects their close collaboration. Ottokie is particularly known for his detailed carvings of Arctic wildlife, with polar bears being a favorite subject. His works capture the movement and vitality of these animals, often portraying them in dynamic poses such as swimming, crouching, or on the prowl.
His style is emblematic of Cape Dorset art, blending naturalism with decorative stylization and dramatic expression. Ottokie is meticulous in selecting materials for his sculptures, often using high-quality serpentine, a metamorphic rock from Baffin Island, known for its beautiful green hues and gold veining. His works are polished to highlight the stone’s inherent beauty, making each piece a unique representation of both his artistic vision and the natural world.
