Sculpture is an art that appeals to the sense of touch. It is therefore not surprising that the Inuit who for many generations depended upon skillful use of their hands for survival would also show an affinity for sculpture as an art form.

Native people of the far north have been making sculpture for thousands of years. There is evidence to suggest that people from the Dorset culture carved amulets and objects for shamanic rituals as early as 800 BC. Around 1000 AD the Thule culture (ancestors of today’s Inuit) migrated to Canada’s north from Alaska and in turn, displaced the Dorset culture. Their art consisted mostly of utilitarian objects and tools that were exquisitely decorated and often embellished with figurative imagery. The Thule culture ended in the 16th Century at about the same time as contact with the white man began. The Inuit at that time often carved small animals and other representational pieces for use as trade with the European arrivals. Although a few discerning collectors in the 20th century recognized the amazing talents of these artists and artisans it wasn’t until 1949, following the success of the first exhibition of contemporary Inuit art in Montreal, that vigorous efforts were made to promote and encourage the development of carvings as a commercial enterprise. In the late 1950’s and early 60’s as more people began to leave behind their nomadic ways and move into settlements, Inuit owned Co ops were established across the north to assist in the distribution of carvings to a rapidly growing audience.

Since 1959 The West Baffin Eskimo Co –Op has had a leading role in the development and success of Cape Dorset’s sculptors. Cape Dorset carvings are recognized for their highly naturalistic forms and dramatic compositions carved from the famous ‘green stone’. Ranging in colour from light yellow green to black, the local serpentine stone used for carving has qualities that allow the artist to carve fluid outlines, daring and delicate lines and smooth, elegant finishes. But more than the materials, it is the rich wealth of talent and imagination that has earned Cape Dorset a reputation as a vibrant centre of not only the graphic arts but of sculpture as well. Renowned artists such as Oshweetok, Latchaolassie, Kaka and Kiawak have carvings in major art galleries and museums around the world. Today their sons and daughters and grandchildren continue the tradition, working in the carving sheds that are their winter studios or out of doors when the first warm days arrive. Dorset Fine Arts remains committed to furthering this unique and remarkable art form by actively supporting and promoting the numerous mature and upcoming sculptors of Cape Dorset.