Inuit Art, Gjoa Haven Journal: Grey Dog Trading Company, Tucson

At Grey Dog Trading Company, we feature fine Native American arts and crafts from throughout the United States and Canada. We specialize in the art of the Native southwestern peoples, as well as Plains tribal arts and Inuit sculpture from Canada. We offer some of the finest work by today's top artists.


Kent's visit to Gjoa Haven included time spent with young up and coming artist Andrew Palongayak, Jr. Andrew was kind enough to let Kent photograph the carving process. This generally takes place outside (where it was a balmy 14 degrees Fahrenheit or so) to avoid breathing some of the noxious dust that can result from carving. Masks help, but unfortunately many carvers neglect to wear them.

Andrew's first step after selecting a stone is roughing out the shape with a power angle grinder that has a diamond blade.

Andrew generally details and textures with a diamond die grinder.

The unpolished piece is ready to be completed inside.

Andrew wet sands the piece using fine sandpaper.

He also uses a file to smooth the base and other areas.

The stone is coated with candle wax for a nice shine and protection. The eyes, teeth and held objects are then carved and added or inlaid into the piece. In this example, a base was also added to finish the creation.

Kent enjoyed his stay and hopes to return to visit soon!

Igloolik Journal	Naujaat Journal

Igloolik Journal

Naujaat Journal