Drum Dancing Bear

Kananginak Pootoogook was one of the first printmakers in Cape Dorset, and remained very active with the studio from its inception in 1959 until his death. This drawing was made in the summer or autumn of 2010, when the artist was in Ottawa for medical treatment, not long before he passed away. He and other artists have made drawings that reflect upon art-making practices, but this drawing of a carving alone may be unique. It is a simple and evocative tribute to a great native sculptural tradition. This acquisition was presented by the Art Fund and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.