About

My name is Gayle Uyagaqi Kabloona, I’m an Inuit artist residing in Ottawa. Art is how I connect with others within my culture, showcase my Inuit culture to others, and express my biracial identity. Although I make Inuit art for Inuit, I welcome support from non-indigenous persons. None of what you can buy here would be considered cultural appropriation! 

I come from a family of artists. I’m named after my ningiuk (gramma) Victoria Mamnguqsualuk and my grandpa’s brother Uyagaqi. I use my Inuktitut name in my art because Uyagaqi was a strong willed person with a formidable work ethic.

I am influenced by my grandmother’s and her mother’s art, Jessie Oonark. Like Oonark, strong women make appearances in my art. I am interested in putting a modern take on traditional Inuit imagery and carrying imagery between mediums, all while paying respect to traditional methods and expertise.

Last year, I produced artworks for clients such as Google Pixel, Canada Goose, the National Arts Centre, the British High Commission and the first annual Truth and Reconciliation stamp by Canada Post. My art has been shown at the Art Gallery of Guelph, Carleton University Art Gallery, and the Taseralik cultural centre in Sisimiut, Greenland. I'm also currently on the longest for the prestigious Kenojuak Ashevak Memorial Award!

Thank you/Ma'na everyone for your interest and support!

And a special thank you to funders Ontario Arts Council and Craft Ontario :)