Inuit art: Transformation Bear
Inuit Artist: Charlie Ookpik
Size: 16" high, 10 wide, 8" deep, 30 lbs
Community: Gjoa Haven, NU 7/20
Stone: Serpentinite
id: c-067
**This Item is Eligible for our 0% Interest Layaway Plan
Ookpik"s transformation bear is the most mysterious and curious piece in our Gjoa Haven collection.
I keep this sculpture close to my desk in the gallery. When I look up from working, he is looking directly at me.
His countenance changes from hour to hour.
Such a paradox.
He often has the look of a child, innocent and pure, needing protection. His arms are rudimentary like flippers. His body features are primal, like a baby.
At other times , he seems possessed with ungodly powers. His eyes become haunted. His nose is wide and flat with large nostrils. He looks more like an animal than a human.. The lips are indistinct like a serpent's.
For me, the essence of this transformation bear ebbs and flows. One moment, it is an innocent child. The next it is a demon.
I believe Ookpik is exploring the "hidden demon" spirit. These are our inner evils that continually battle with our conscience. This battle is present in all of us.
This is NOT a frightening piece. In fact, I find myself wanting to protect it. More than anything, I am fascinated by this piece.
An amazing sculpture created by a superlative artist, Charlie Ookpik.
See our notes on The Gjoa Haven Collection.
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