In the winter of 1976, Inuit artists were invited to participate in a competition sponsored by the Canadian Crafts Council, focused on jewellery made from natural materials. The premise of the competition was refreshingly straightforward, as one of the jurors explained: “People everywhere like to adorn themselves with beautiful things. It’s a natural thing to do and helps people to feel important! It feels good to wear jewellery that is beautiful and well made” [1].

Nearly 100 works were submitted, with the award-winning pieces entering the collection of the then Department of Indian and Northern Affairs in Ottawa and becoming part of the exhibition titled ᐱᐅᓴᐅᑎᑦ (Things That Make Us Beautiful / Nos parures). Among these works was a piece by Papiara Tukiki, illustrated as no. 11 in the octavo-folded catalogue, which featured the same owl motif now central to the present necklace.

This present work expands upon that motif, showcasing three owls carved from a light green stone that contains yellow highlights, each set into sterling silver. These owls hang from a sleek, geometric bale—a design choice that feels strikingly modern. The chain is adorned with meticulously crafted stone “beads,” alternating between light and dark tones, their uniform size and polished finish creating a glistening effect. Thin metal discs punctuate between the beads, adding rhythm and sophistication to the composition.

Though Papiara Tukiki is celebrated primarily as a graphic artist, this necklace reveals her remarkable versatility and skill as both a metalsmith and a carver. The way in which the owls, the bale, and the beads are integrated speaks to her visionary approach and her innate sense of composition.