Pudlalik Shaa

Inuit

Born in 1965 in Cape Dorset, Pudlalik Shaa is the son of famous Inuit carver, Aqjangajuk Shaa.  He started carving at the age of 12 after watching his father and others carve.  He has supported himself through his art since the age of 17.  Pudlalik learned to carve using hand tools exclusively – an axe, a saw, a rasp and various files.  He started using various power tools about 15 years ago.  He carves a range of subjects including transformations, walruses, geese, musk oxen and drum dancers.  Pudlalik typically carves small to medium sized carvings except when he goes out to the quarry and is able to bring back larger pieces of stone.  Many of his birds and transformations are finely balanced on one leg.  Pudlalik has had exhibitions in North America and Europe.