Mary Inuktalik
Sharing her culture through her art is important for Mary. Her parkas are exceptional in detail and showcase a traditional style that keeps the wearer warm and happy. With pieces featured annually at the Great Northern Arts Festival in Inuvik , NT, at Canada’s Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, QU and in the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation head office, Mary is a well respected artist and proudly represents her culture and her community of Ulukhaktuk, NT in her work. Her pieces are designed for longevity – made with patience and stitched with love. Mary’s many years of practice mean that she can sew a parka from the creation of her own pattern to a finished piece in about a month. Mary experiences a peaceful satisfaction when it all comes together. Mary’s favorite parka is a Mother Hubbard sunburst design with wolverine inlay that she created as a customer commission. She is well known for her creative inclusion of all the furs of the north – wolf, muskrat, beaver, seal and caribou. Mary’s work begins as a simple creative thought that grows and inspires her to begin drawing. Then she takes a few days to finalize the design and make a pattern before she begins sewing. Once she starts sewing, Mary’s patience returns as she completes the garment with care. Mary’s work is available directly from her home and she is willing to take on custom commissions.