Inuk artist’s copper pendants make bold statements

Iqaluit-based artist Barbara Akoak, right, stands beside three oxidized copper pendants with her child Percy Akoak, on June 11. The pendants, which Akoak made, are featured in the Qillaniq exhibition of circumpolar art at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa. Titled Ancestral Love; Angunatsiuviit?, or “Are you a hunter?”; and F*ck who you want, It’s your body, the works reflect themes of consent, bodily autonomy and Inuit culture. “To be among so much talent — people for whom this is also their full-time job, or what they’re naturally gifted at — I was so emotional and so proud,” Akoak said. (Photo courtesy of Barbara Akoak)