Kaka Ashoona

1928–

Quqaq (Kaka) Ashoona (1928– ) was a hunter, sculptor born in Ikerassik Camp in Qikiqtaaluk (Baffin Island). He is the son of Pitseolak Ashoona. Early in his life, he lived off the land according to Inuit tradition, living nomadically as opposed to staying in the settlement of Kinngait (Cape Dorset). He exclusively used hand-made tools throughout his career and also went on excursions to quarry his own serpentine stone.

Quqaq produced polished carvings and detailed carved works that feature animal and human representations rooted in traditional Inuit legends. Using bold forms, his carvings demonstrate the fluidity between the material, animal, and spiritual world.

Quqaq’s work has been exhibited both nationally and internationally. His sculptures were first exhibited in 1953 at the Coronation Exhibition in London at the age of twenty-five. His first solo exhibition was in Victoria, BC, at the Gallery of the Arctic (1973). His daughters Siassie Kenneally, Ottokie Ashoona, and Ohito Ashoona are also distinguished artists.