Polar Bear with Cubs

Juanisi Jakusi Itukalla, or “Joanassie Jack”, as he is called, was born just south of Puvirnituq on December 2, 1949. He and his family moved into the community in 1957. Prompted by his father Aisa Avialiajuk Itukalla and his uncle Levi Qumaluk, both of whom have reputations as superb artists, Juanasi began to carve at about twelve years of age. His younger brother Peter carves also, and through their mother they are related to that great family of sculptors which includes Joe Talirunili and Davidialuk Alasua Amittu. Juanisi has developed a powerful, distinctively personal style that draws upon his knowledge of Arctic fauna, ancient legends, and folklore.