Native Art Gallery
Walking Bear
Walking Bear
Artist: Kellipalik Etidloie
Community: Cape Dorset
Medium: Soapstone
Dimensions (in): W 3.0 x H 4.0 x D 7.0
Reference: 109402
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Endearingly called the "King of the North", the Polar Bear, or Nanuq, is the greatest predator of the Arctic and a powerfully respected animal. He is the one animal that is at home both on land and water. He is built for his environment and has no troubles surviving the long, harsh winters.
Some Inuit believe that how we live our lives affects what we become in the afterlife. Apparently, the best reward for a life-well-lived is to return in the form of the polar bear. This is because the ‘King of the Arctic’, as he is endearingly called, is strong enough to survive the long, cold winters. Instead of carving polar bears only in walking positions or other poses often seen in nature, Inuit carvers began to make bears in upright positions, often standing on one hind leg. This pose represents the polar bear in a happy state of dancing and celebration. Some carvers claim that dancing bears represent a form of shamanism and transformation between a human and a bear.

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Kellipalik Etidloie
Kellipalik Etidloie is a distinguished indigenous artist from Kinngait (formerly Cape Dorset), Nunavut, Canada. Her art deeply reflects the cultural richness and traditions of the Inuit community. Known for her exceptional skills in printmaking, drawing, and sculpture, Etidloie blends traditional Inuit materials and techniques with contemporary artistic expressions. Her work frequently explores themes related to Inuit folklore, identity, and the natural Arctic environment, using vibrant colors and intricate details to bring traditional stories and symbols to life.
Etidloie's contributions to contemporary Inuit art have earned her recognition both within Canada and internationally. Her pieces are showcased in various prominent galleries and museums, underscoring her role in the global art scene. She is affiliated with Kinngait Studios, a renowned center for Inuit art, which has played a significant role in promoting and preserving Inuit artistic traditions. Her involvement with this institution highlights her commitment to both maintaining and evolving the rich heritage of Inuit art.
Through her evocative and culturally resonant artwork, Kellipalik Etidloie helps bridge the gap between indigenous heritage and modern art. Her creations not only celebrate the traditions of her people but also offer a window into Inuit life and beliefs. For those interested in exploring her work further, resources such as the Kinngait Studios website, the Canadian Museum of History, and the Inuit Art Foundation provide valuable insights into her artistic journey and achievements.