Tommy Takpanie Jr. is an Inuit artist renowned for his masterful stone carvings, particularly of polar bears. Born in 1964 in Iqaluit, Nunavut, he hails from a family of accomplished carvers, including his father, Tommy Takpanie Sr., and several siblings. Unlike his father's depiction of dancing bears, Tommy Jr. is known for his realistic and dynamic portrayals of polar bears in motion, a theme he deeply connects with, considering it both a family legacy and a personal passion.
Takpanie Jr.'s works have gained significant recognition, being showcased both nationally and internationally. Notably, his sculptures were part of the 1993 exhibition "The Bear: Sculpture" at Albers Gallery in San Francisco. His bears are highly sought after, and he continues to carve full-time, contributing to the rich tradition of Inuit art with each creation.
Tommy's sculptures reflect the power and grace of the polar bear, embodying the connection between Inuit culture and the Arctic environment. His art has been featured in numerous exhibitions across Canada and beyond, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in contemporary Inuit art.
