Mary Paningajak
B. 1961 Ivujivik, QC —
Mary Paningajak is a woman of many talents.
A gifted carver, jeweller, graphic artist and printmaker, Paningajak is also currently the mayor of her hometown of Ivujivik, Nunavik, QC. Her father, Tivi Paningajak (1917–1991), was for a time the only artist producing prints in his community, a dedication to this influential medium that is echoed by his daughter. Though there has not been a formal print release from Nunavik in nearly three decades, Paningajak works independently, making incredibly graphic and whimsical prints that showcase local flora and traditional culture. Her works are also quite personal, often recording events from her life and community. Untitled (2013), a painting with a fiery orange background, is inscribed with a story of the artist’s father, ill in bed, being comforted by Paningajak and her younger brother. In this work Paningajak has taken a key event from her life and translated it into a deeply powerful and memorable experience for those who view it.