Caribou by Bobby Anavilok

Inuit art: Caribou
Inuit Artist: Bobby Anavilok
Size: 8.5"" across, 7.25" high (3" antlers / 5" body), 2.5" wide
Community: Kugluktuk, NU
Stone: Dolomite
id: d-5578bdjj

This is a beautiful rendition of a real life caribou. In order to achieve the true grace and timid stance of this gorgeous mammal, Bobby had to painstakingly carve out each leg. This takes tremendous focus and patience for an artist to perform. Caribous are by far the hardest subjects for an artist to carve. This is why they are not frequently seen.

The tenuous realism and visages of the Arctic mammal have rendered Anavilok's craft as a distinctive, yet prominent mainstay for galleries alike. His work's fastidious proportions and exquisite beauty have allowed Anavilok's depiction of Northern wildlife to be celebrated among the avant-garde circles of Inuit art. 

What also makes this a unique piece from Bobby's array of famous caribous, is the stone. It is the same dolomite he normally uses, however, this particular piece was mined further down resulting in a gorgeous copper hue tint over the darkish grey stone. The clash of coloration makes this piece really stand out.

The movement, the stone, the finish, the carved fur and everything else about this piece all encapsulate it as a masterpiece.