Sikkuark has secured his spot in the pantheon of the Kitikmeot Region and is best known for his sculptural depictions of the spirit world; works that successfully fuse humour and horror. While Sikkuark’s subjects generally focus on shamanic or otherwise supernatural figures and environments, he also excelled at depictions of the more “terrestrial.” This Drum Dancer, possibly carved during Sikkuark’s stay in Gjoa Haven (and certainly influenced by it), may depict someone drumming for entertainment, but more likely portrays a shaman leading a drum séance or summoning a helping spirit.

References: For an impressive overview of the artist’s life and work (with dozens of illustrations) see the National Gallery solo exhibition catalogue: Christine Lalonde et al, Nick Sikkuark: Humour and Horror, (Ottawa: National Gallery of Canada, 2023). See also Marion Scott Gallery, The Art of Nick Sikkuark: Sculpture and Drawings, (Vancouver: Marion Scott Gallery, 2003). See the section on the artist in Darlene Coward Wight, Art & Expression of the Netsilik, (Winnipeg: Winnipeg Art Gallery, 2000), pp. 32-43. For a discussion of Sikkuark's sculptural style see Robert Kardosh's two-part article, "Natural Fantasia: The Wonderful World of Nick Sikkuark”: Part I in Inuit Art Quarterly, (Spring 2005), pp. 8-14, and Part II in Inuit Art Quarterly, (Summer 2005), pp. 10-16.