In this powerful and sizable sculpture, Oviloo Tunnillie celebrates the artistic legacy of her husband’s grandmother, Ikayukta Tunnillie (1911-1980). This sculpture, the earliest of at least three known works depicting Ikayukta, portrays her with a bent posture, leaning on a cane for support as she trudges forward, carrying her drawings rolled up in a tube holder on her back.

Oviloo masterfully uses negative space to create depth and bring the sculpture to life. By carving out the spaces between Ikayukta’s body and her cane support, the artist allows light to pass through, accentuating the elder’s forward-leaning stance. This deliberate use of negative space transforms the stone, giving the piece a dynamic, lifelike energy that contrasts with its solid form. Ikayukta’s mouth is slightly agape, suggesting a deep breath as she presses on toward the Co-op, embodying both the physical exertion and the inner resolve needed to continue her artistic journey. The light green stone, with its highly polished surfaces, enhances the careful attention to the folds of the garments, showcasing Oviloo's skill in balancing stylization with naturalism.

Oviloo, who lived with Ikayukta in the elder artist’s later years, spoke of Ikayukta with great affection during a 1997 episode of Adrienne Clarkson Presents, where she was filmed carving the present work. “I really liked my husband’s grandmother, so I like the carving [...] I think of the advice Ikayukta used to give me and I can still use the advice today,” she shared, revealing how deeply she valued Ikayukta’s wisdom and artistic mentorship, even though the specifics of that advice remain unknown [1].

In examining this work, it is easy to see why this carving resonated with Oviloo and why it became the focus of an episode of Adrienne Clarkson Presents. The sculpture powerfully conveys the elder’s enduring spirit, while reflecting the deep respect and affection Oviloo held for her. This large, masterful work goes beyond portraying Ikayukta’s physical presence — it embodies the profound and lasting influence she had on Oviloo’s life and artistic journey.

1. Adrienne Clarkson Presents, “Women’s Work: Inuit Women Artists,” season 8, episode 19, aired 12 Nov 1997, on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, 41:00.