Irene Avaalaaqiaq Tiktaalaaq facts for kids

Irene Avaalaaqiaq Tiktaalaaq, born in 1941, is a very famous Inuit artist from Canada. Her art often shows parts of her own life, like growing up without parents. It also tells stories and legends that her grandmother shared with her. Avaalaaqiaq Tiktaalaaq is well-known for her amazing drawings, prints, and special fabric art called wall hangings.

Her Early Life

Irene Avaalaaqiaq Tiktaalaaq was born near Baker Lake in Nunavut, Canada. She believes she was born in 1941. At that time, birth dates were not always written down in her area.

Her mother passed away soon after Irene was born. Her father could not take care of her. So, her grandparents raised her in the traditional Inuit way. She grew up learning from them on the land.

Irene remembers her childhood clearly. She said that her wall hangings remind her of her life. She always thinks of her grandmother and the stories she told. When she makes art, she remembers those times. It feels like it is happening again.

On August 9, 1956, she married David Tiktaalaaq in Baker Lake. They moved to Baker Lake in 1958. There, she gave birth to one of their children.

Her Amazing Artwork

Avaalaaqiaq Tiktaalaaq started her art journey around 1969. She began by making small carvings from soapstone. These often showed animals with human heads.

Her beautiful artworks are now in many important places. You can find them at the National Gallery of Canada and the Winnipeg Art Gallery. They are also in the Baltimore Museum of Art. Her art is truly special and recognized widely.

Art Shows and Exhibitions

Irene Avaalaaqiaq Tiktaalaaq's art has been shown in many places. People around the world have seen her unique creations.

Some of her notable exhibitions include:

• Two Great Image Makers from Baker Lake, 1999 (with Josiah Nuilaalik)
• Works On Cloth, 2002

Her art has been displayed in many galleries and museums. These include places like the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Canadian Museum of Civilization. Her work helps people understand Inuit culture and stories.

Special Awards and Honours

In 1999, the University of Guelph gave Avaalaaqiaq Tiktaalaaq a special award. It was an honorary doctorate degree. This award recognized her important work in Inuit art. It also honored her leadership in the Baker Lake community.

She felt very proud to receive this award. She said, "It makes me feel proud that my art is recognized after so many years of being an artist." She gave her speech in her native language, Inuktitut. Her friend, Sally Qimmiu'naaq Webster, helped translate for her.

She was also made a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. This is a very high honour for Canadian artists.