Aqjangajuk Shaa, RCA

Aqjangajuk Shaa, RCA

(1935-2019 ) | Satuqitu Camp on South Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada

Aqjangajuk started carving when he was 15 years old with small seals and birds. He was paid three dollars for his first sculptures.  He learned to carve by watching his grandfather Kiakshuk and his uncles.  His sons, Pudlalik Shaa and Alariaq Shaa and grandson Qavavau Shaa, have all learned to carve by watching him.  He enjoys carving his world famous dancing walruses.  Aqjangajuk is also known for his strong drummers and lively caribou.  He captures the spirit of the characters he carves.  Aqjangajuk has been in exhibitions all over the world.  In 2003 he was elected to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts.  His work is also in many major museum collections including the National Gallery of Canada and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

(name spellings include – Aqjangajuk Shaa, Axangayu Shaa, Aqsangajuk Shaa, Axangajuk Shaa, Aqjaangaju Shaa)

Work by this artist