Inuit Art Icons in Comics
The Inuit Art Icons in Comics was a limited series of comics published on the Online between May and November 2020 that highlighted the art and lives of seven major figures in the Inuit art world. As the author of this series, this was a welcome opportunity to explore the work of artists who have had a profound effect on art history while honouring their legacies in a new way. This comic, featuring Karoo Ashevak (1940–1974), was the last in the series and the culmination of what I learned through writing about and drawing other artists’ work during the course of the series. The series also included comics about Kenojuak Ashevak, CC, RCA, ON (1927–2013), Helen Kalvak, CM, RCA (1901–1984), Joe Talirunili (1906– 1976), Jessie Oonark, OC, RCA (1906–1985), Pudlo Pudlat (1916–1992) and Tivi Etook.
In this last comic I wanted to capture the unique, bold expressionism that is so visceral in Ashevak’s magnificent carvings. I chose to draw the characters in bright white on black paper so that the forms would pop visually and mirror the emotional response the real sculptures elicit. I was particularly struck with Karoo Ashevak’s work and how playful his carvings were. They capture the quintessential Inuit humour that has always been so warm and welcoming.
What I learned through creating this series, and wanted to portray in this comic specifically, was the depth of expression imbued in the work of mid-twentieth century Inuit artists. It amazes me that despite the demand for very specific types of Inuit art during this period, mainly prints and carvings, the artists in this series were able to produce art with incredible range and personality. Drawing these comics offered me new insight into the lives and perspectives these artists conveyed through their art, and it was a privilege to share their stories through my own art.