Jessie Oonark
Jessie Oonark
Jessie Oonark is a Canadian Inuit artist born in Chantrey Inlet. Her artwork medium is specialized in wall hangings and drawings that portray traditional Inuit lifestyle and Christianity.
Her artistic career began with crayons provided by Dr. Andrew Macpherson who recognized her talent to being noticed by an art advisor in Baker Lake where she was given a private studio and provided a small salary to work full time.
Oonark’s Drawings and Wall hangings
Journey to the National Arts Centre
The Untitled, 1972 tapestry was commissioned by William Teron, the first National Arts Centre board of directors also known as the father of Kanata. He intended for the artwork to be hung in a hotel or office space but the piece was too big to fit. The piece stayed in Teron’s home for the time being.
During a social gathering in Teron’s home the general of the National Arts Centre recognizes the tapestry. In 1973, the tapestry was donated to the N.A.C to be displayed.
Interactive Tapestry
Click to learn about the symbolism of each element