This is a small 6x6x3 inch carving in soapstone (two types). The harpoon is a sliver of deer antler (from a natural shed) and the cord is artificial sinew. The base is white soapstone with a corner painted blue, representing ice and water. The blue paint used is oil-based enamel. The paint is difficult to notice due to the blue background.
From the Canadian Encyclopedia:
Inuksuit are placed throughout the Arctic landscape acting as "helpers " to the Inuit. Among their many practical functions, they are used as hunting and navigational aids, coordination points and message centres (e.g., they might indicate where food was stored). In addition to their earthly functions, certain inuksuk-like figures have spiritual connotations, and are objects of great respect, often marking the spiritual landscape of the Inummariit — the Inuit who know how to survive on the land living in their traditional way.
The Inuit also construct a stone figure called an inunnguaq, which means "in the likeness of a human. " This familiar stone figure with head, body, legs and arms is often mistakenly referred to as an inuksuk. Its purpose is more symbolic than functional. Because it looks like a little person, its image has become a popular cross-cultural symbol.
This art piece differs from a depiction of normal Inuksuit in that I have it in an action pose. It was a fun and reasonable quick piece to complete.
I do not know why but the art of, and materials used by, indigenous peoples from around the world hold some sort of fascination for me. Don’t get me wrong I love modern art materials too but stone, flint, wood, charcoal, antler, bone, soot ink, mineral paints and sinew…as art materials seem to have a special feeling or connection to me. Of course I have to put my own spin on it.
Next up is a large stone Walrus (about 70 US Pounds) for my wife but don’t hold your breath, I am struggling with it. If the idea or obligation for an art piece doesn’t originate with me I have problems doing it.
Also I am considering doing a medium sized Mahogony and glass Owl totem.
Now that project unlike an obligation piece seems like a great adventure.
Thank you Terri
Not something I planned, the compulsion to do it sort of came to mind while studying the Inuit culture. Who knows where those ideas come from…
