NWT Arts

Don worked with many different art forms throughout his life. As a student, he often drew in class because he found it difficult to sit still. Though he struggled with the structure of school, his teachers allowed him to draw, recognizing that art helped him remain calm and focused. He also practiced calligraphy, which he enjoyed as a pastime.

At the age of 23, his uncle introduced him to soapstone carving. In the beginning, he found it challenging, but through patience and practice, he developed his skills. He learned by watching closely, asking questions, and taking in as much knowledge as he could. Born with one lung, he later found that carving larger pieces became difficult for his health. In response, he began creating smaller carved jewellery, which produced less dust and was easier for him to manage. The tradition of carving ran deeply in his family, and he often reflected on its connection to his mother, a talented and creative seamstress.

During his youth, Don spent a great deal of time on the land with his grandparents, many nautical miles northeast of Tuktoyaktuk. There, he learned to fish, hunt caribou, and live from the land. These experiences stayed with him throughout his life and strongly influenced his artwork. Through his carvings, he worked to honour and preserve his Inuvialuit culture, often depicting traditional ways of life, northern landscapes, and the wildlife essential to survival.

His jewellery was crafted from natural materials such as moose antler, whale baleen, and muskox horn. He took pride in creating work that was strong, durable, and reflective of the animals from which the materials came. He aimed to create pieces that others would admire, while also reconnecting himself to meaningful memories from his life on the land.

Art provided Don with a sense of peace and purpose. It allowed him to step away from the stress of everyday life and fully immerse himself in the creative process. He did not see his art as a job, but as something that nourished his spirit. He was deeply grateful for the support of his partner and family, who understood the time and dedication his work required. For Don, art was something he was called to do each day, and he remained thankful for the opportunity to create.