Johnnysa Mathewsie
Artist Biography (B. 1984): Kinngait / Cape Dorset, NU
Johnnysa Mathewsie comes from a family of well known Inuit carvers. He is the son of Qiatsuk Qiatsuk and a grandson of master carver Lukta Qiatsuk. His uncle is Padlaya Qiatsuq and his great grandfather is the renowned Kiakshuk. Johnnysa learned to carve from his grandfather Lukta when he was 12 years old. He now supports himself almost exclusively through carving.
He carves a range of subjects including Arctic wildlife and figurative carvings. Johnnysa is well known for his Canada geese carvings. The wings of his birds are often spread out ready to soar with fine details. His carving style honours his family and he is also willing to explore new subjects. He often uses glass beads for the eyes of his subjects. Johnnysa is an emerging talent from Cape Dorset and many galleries carry his sculptures.
