Johnny Inukpuk
Canadian, 1911 - 2007Walrus on Side, mid 20th Century
On view
Soapstone and ivory
Dimensions2 1/4 × 5 3/4 in. (5.7 × 14.6 cm)
Gift of Mrs. Keith Davis, 1982.200
The smoothly rounded form of Walrus on Side by Inuit artist Johnny Inukpuk portrays his individual style of art. From 1952 to 1954, Inukpuk’s carvings were admired and imitated by other artists in the Port Harrison area. Themes of Inukpuk’s art include raising children, home life, and hunting.
Inukpuk began carving early in life, when he was dependent upon the land for survival. In the 1950s, Inukpuk relocated to Inukjuak and was encouraged to carve by James Houston, whom he refers to as “Saumik.” According to the artist, "I am always carving, the only time it gets hard is if there is no stone to carve."
