Mating Polar Bears

Andy Miki was an Inuk sculptor from Arviat, Nunavut (formerly Eskimo Point, Northwest Territories), born near the Kazan River. He is recognized as one of the leading minimalist Inuit carvers, known for his simplified, geometric depictions of Arctic animals. While living at Ennadai Lake in the 1950s, Miki made skin-covered wood model kayaks to trade to qallunaat (non-Inuit) visitors. He likely began carving animal figures after his relocation to Eskimo Point and Rankin Inlet in 1959, and he also spent time in Whale Cove before returning to Arviat.

Miki's preferred subjects were bears, caribou, birds, muskox, arctic hares, and dogs. He drew inspiration from his own observations of Arctic wildlife rather than from oral traditions or imaginary creatures. The hard soapstone available near Arviat influenced his spare, simplified forms. His sculptures often strip away detail to the point where viewers may struggle to identify the species, though the works retain their distinctly animal character. Miki also occasionally carved in antler and produced works with more realistic detail, demonstrating a range beyond strict minimalism.

Miki is often discussed alongside his friend and colleague John Pangnark, another Arviat artist devoted to minimalism. While Pangnark focused on the human figure, Miki concentrated on animals. Together with artists such as Lucy Tasseor, they helped establish the regional aesthetic associated with Arviat. Miki's work is held in numerous institutional collections, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Dennos Museum, and the University of Michigan Museum of Art. He died in December 1982.