THOMAS AKILAK

Thomas Akilak, born on October 16, 1961, in Baker Lake (Qamani’tuaq), Nunavut, is a distinguished Inuit sculptor renowned for his evocative representations of traditional Inuit life. Thomas hails from a family deeply rooted in the arts. His mother, Hattie, is a printmaker, while both she and his father, Moses, are carvers. His brother, Michael, and sister-in-law, Mary, are also active in the carving community. Primarily working with basalt—a hard volcanic stone—Akilak's sculptures often
depict scenes of Inuit life, reflecting his cultural heritage and personal experiences. Akilak's work has been featured in various exhibitions, including "Mother and Child: Sculpture and Prints" at Albers Gallery. His sculptures are part of collections in institutions such as the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, which houses his piece "Sedna, déesse de la mer." Beyond his immediate family, Akilak is related to other notable artists. His brother, Abraham, and sister-in-law, Mary, are also recognized carvers from Baker Lake, contributing to the rich tapestry of Inuit art. Through his sculptures, Thomas Akilak offers a profound insight into Inuit culture, traditions, and narratives, solidifying his position as a significant figure in contemporary Inuit art.