-
Artworks
LUKTA QIATSUK (1928-2004) KINNGAIT (CAPE DORSET)
Watchful Owl, mid 1970sstone, 11 x 9.5 x 10 in (27.9 x 24.1 x 25.4 cm)
signed, “ᓗᑕ ᑭᐊᓯ".
LOT 114
ESTIMATE: $2,500 — $3,500
PRICE REALIZED: $6,000.00Further images
Son of the famous graphic artist and sculptor Kiakshuk (1886-1966), Lukta was also a gifted sculptor and printmaker. Although his skill at carving rivalled those of his contemporaries Osuitok and...Son of the famous graphic artist and sculptor Kiakshuk (1886-1966), Lukta was also a gifted sculptor and printmaker. Although his skill at carving rivalled those of his contemporaries Osuitok and Sheokjuk, Lukta devoted most of his time and energy to working in the Cape Dorset printmaking studio where his talents were used not only produce almost 20 of his own images but, perhaps more significantly, almost 300 different images for other Cape Dorset artists from the 1950s through to the 1990s! Watchful Owl is a fine example of Lukta’s sculptural style from the mid 1970s. The Markham Bay stone used at this time was problematic for many sculptors; many works carved in the stone are interesting but not exactly elegant. Lukta’s sculpture, on the other hand, is magnificent. Its broad, simplified forms are flawlessly executed and harmonious, and the figure exudes nobility and strength. We are glad that Lukta took the time out from his printmaking pursuits to create such an impressive work.
References: Interestingly, this work is reminiscent of a sturdy Owl by Lukta from 1960, included in the famous travelling exhibition sponsored by the Canadian Eskimo Arts Council, Sculpture/Inuit (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1971) cat. 198; and illustrated in George Swinton, Sculpture of the Inuit (Toronto: McClelland & Stewart, 1972/92) fig. 443 (see also fig. 447). For another example see also Alistair Macduff and George M. Galpin, Lords of the Stone: An Anthology of Eskimo Sculpture (North Vancouver: Whitecap Books, 1982), p. 60.Provenance
Private Collection, USA;
A Montreal Collection.