Stanley and Jean Zazelenchuk, the original stewards of this work, lived and worked in Kangiqliniq (Rankin Inlet) from 1976 to 1980, becoming close friends with their neighbour, John Kavik. The couple purchased his sculptures during these years, at a time when very few others were doing so, including the manager of the local co-op [1]. Their early support provides an intimate glimpse into the small circle of people who recognized the idiosyncratic charm of Kavik's work before it received wider attention.

Standing Figure is an imposing sculpture, its rough, rounded surfaces retaining the immediacy of Kavik's hand. The figure has a wonderfully odd set of proportions, with a broad body, short limbs and an expression that seems at once earnest and, maybe even, sly.

The sweep of the figure's arm across his torso gives the figure an appealing but slightly tentative sense of purpose. Jean Zazelenchuk, remembering Kavik's impish sense of humour, has wondered whether the figure might instead be a self-portrait, Kavik, the artist standing proudly with a small sculpture of his own, hoping to find a buyer.

1. Stanley Zazelenchuk, "Rankin Inlet, 1976-80" in Rankin Inlet / Kangirlliniq, (Winnipeg Art Gallery, 1981), p. 26.

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