Qavavau Ashoona

(1967 – Present)

Cape Dorset based carver Qavavau Ashoona was exposed to a wealth of cultural expression and traditional stories throughout his youth. The grandchild of renowned graphic artist Pitseolak Ashoona and the son of carver Koomwartok Ashoona, Qavavau has established himself as a talented carver with an eye for elegant forms and fluid lines. He works primarily with the local serpentine stone, which is a semi-soft material that retains polish well. Qavavau is particularly known for his graceful bear carvings, which demonstrate his keen sense of proportion and his careful observation of wildlife over the years.