Talurjuaq (Taloyoak)
(1933–c. 1990)
(1933–c. 1990)
Talurjuaq (Taloyoak), NU-based sculptor Abraham Kingmiaqtuq is known for his expressive works in the community’s signature dark stone as well as whalebone and ivory. Works such as Spirit of Lightning (1987) capture some of the artist's enduring fascination with depicting spirits as well as scenes of transformation while demonstrating his skill with fine detail. Career highlights include Kingmiaqtuq’s inclusion in a Canadian postage stamp series released in 1978 and focused on travel. The artist’s ivory sculpture Dogsled and Dog Team (c. 1978) joined works by Pudlo Pudlat, Pitseolak Ashoona and Joe Talirunili as part of the series. Kingmiaqtuq was also featured in The Amway Environmental Foundation’s 1991 project Masters Of The Arctic - Art In The Service Of The Earth which recognized the contributions of over 100 circumpolar Indigenous artists. His work can be found in the collections of the Winnipeg Art Gallery and National Gallery of Canada.
About
Kadluq is the spirit of lightning in Nattilik (Netsilik) culture. Kadluq would strike two flint stones together to create flashes of lightning. This carving was commissioned for the Winnipeg Art Gallery in 1987. When photographs were taken of the artist, he enjoyed demonstrating the similarity between the spirit’s face and his own.
