PITSEOLAK ASHOONA, R.C.A., O.C., (1904-1983) KINNGAIT (CAPE DORSET), Untitled Drawing (Running Spirits), 1960s

PITSEOLAK ASHOONA, R.C.A., O.C., (1904-1983) KINNGAIT (CAPE DORSET)

Untitled Drawing (Running Spirits), 1960s

ink on wove paper, 13.75 x 16 in (34.9 x 40.6 cm)
signed, "ᐱᓯᐅᓚ";
with unfinished sketch on verso.

LOT 24
ESTIMATE: $500 — $800

This drawing recalls some of Pitseolak’s best-known compositions, notably Caribou at Play, in its sense of animals stacked, suspended and overlapping within a shallow field rather than planted firmly in...

This drawing recalls some of Pitseolak’s best-known compositions, notably Caribou at Play, in its sense of animals stacked, suspended and overlapping within a shallow field rather than planted firmly in space. The upper pair of birds are especially effective. Their long bodies sweep diagonally across one another, while the animal below runs in the opposite direction, creating the same compressed, interlocking movement found in Caribou at Play, where bodies seem to tumble, leap and pass over one another without conventional ground lines.

There is a similar treatment of anatomy as well. Elongated torsos, splayed limbs, tapered heads and repeated appendages are articulated with only a few internal marks to suggest feathers, fur or joints. The effect is graphic rather than naturalistic. Most characteristic of all is the sense of contained commotion, with several creatures seemingly caught in motion at once, yet held together within a compact, highly legible composition.

Provenance

Private Collection, Florence, Oregon;
Estate of the above;
Acquired from the above by the present Oregon Collection, 2026.

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PITSEOLAK ASHOONA, R.C.A., O.C., (1904-1983) KINNGAIT (CAPE DORSET)

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