Nibgoarsi (Kutluk), Thomas
About the Artist
Community : Arviat
Medium : Carving
Biography :
Thomas Nibgoarsi is the eldest of the Nibgoarsi brothers who have become known for their innovative antler art. Thomas was originally inspired to carve by the late father of a childhood friend, Romeo Ikahkik (Nibgoarsi). As a child he used to watch him carve caribou antler.
Thomas’s grandfather was the late noted artist John Pangnark (Olson 31). His mother Elizabeth Nibgoarsi is also an artist (Nibgoarsi).
The Nibgoarsi brothers live a traditional lifestyle and hunt for caribou in order to provide substinence for their families.They collect fallen caribou antler for their carvings when they are out on hunting trips, and they pick up whalebones along the shorelines (Olson 31).
Thomas began carving in the early 1990’s. “Drumdancers are among his preferred subjects as he has taken pleasure in drumming and singing for as long as he can remember (Olson 31). Thomas has himself become influential in the Arviat art scene. His two brothers Chesley and David “ say that they were inspired to make art by watching him” (Olson 31). Thomas continues to create intriguing and dynamic art that is appreciated worldwide.
Compiled by Nunavut Development Corporation, 2012.
Works Cited:
* Nibgoarsi, Thomas. “Thomas Nibgoarsi: Inuit Artist from Canada”.Tripod. Web. May 17, 2012.
* Olson, Michael. “Bone Work from Arviat.” Inuit Art Quarterly. Vol. 18. No. 1. Spring/Summer 2003: 30-31.
