Napachie Sharky

(1971 – Present, Cape Dorset)

Napachie Sharky is a visionary artist based in Cape Dorset. Born in 1971 to Josephee Sharky and Ragee Killiktee, Napachie’s early years were marred by the death of his father and grandfather, Sharky Nuna, in 1979. In the years since, Napachie has dedicated himself to his artistic practice, taking as his inspiration the local arctic wildlife and stunning landscape in which he lives. He works almost exclusively on small-scale sculptures, focusing on capturing minute details that bring his work to life. Napachie is best known for his birds, often composed with outstretched, dramatic wings and rounded, plump bodies. His brother, Toonoo Sharky, is also a carver and one of the region’s most celebrated contemporary artists.