White Partridge Carving, c. 2000
by Silas Kayakjuak, Inuit
antler, soapstone base
2 1/4" high x 3" wide x 2 1/2" deep
Originally from Sanirajak, Nunavut, Canada, Inuit artist Silas Kayakjuak (Qayakjuak) now lives in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Kayakjuak learned how to carve from his parents, Joanasi and Martha Kayakjuak, both of whom were also artists. He began carving at the age of 12, creating images of the human form.
Silas uses indigenous materials such as antler, deer bone, ivory, sinew, whale bone, serpentine, walrus jaw, stone, and steatite. He depicts traditional scenes, Arctic animals and birds, and shamanic transformation. He specializes in small carvings, little gems that exude great power and feeling.
