Lot 72
JOHN PANGNARK (1920-1980) ARVIAT (ESKIMO POINT)
Figure in a Parka, c. 1972-74
stone, 6 x 5.25 x 1.75 in (15.2 x 13.3 x 4.4 cm)
signed and inscribed with carving number, "ᐸᓂᔭ / 1576-2";
accompanied by the original igloo tag, carving no. 1576-2.

Provenance
Private Collection, Lunenburg, NS.

Any examination of the works of John Pangnark quickly reveals that his primary concern as a sculptor was form. Impressively monumental despite measuring only six inches, Figure in a Parka is significant for its streamlined, sleek structure, which depicts the entirety of the figure as a singular, graceful form with lines that seem to sweep up and backward. This sense of buoyancy is punctuated by two angular notches that denote the figure’s arms. The elegant, linear configuration terminates at the top with a waggish rounded form that illustrates the tip of the figure’s parka hood. It’s a delightful bit of whimsy that suggests a piece of pulled taffy or a dollop of meringue!

References: For numerous works by Pangnark see Norman Zepp, Pure Vision: The Keewatin Spirit, (Regina: Norman Mackenzie Art Gallery, 1986), cats. 20-31; and Bernadette Driscoll, Eskimo Point/Arviat, (Winnipeg: Winnipeg Art Gallery, 1982), cats. 59-72.