A recently completed contents report we prepared included some fine art paintings and sculptures including several Inuit soapstone carvings by rare and sought after artists. One such piece was this standing polar bear by renowned Northwest Territories artist Derrald Taylor.
Derrald Taylor, born in 1963 in Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, is a distinguished Inuvialuit artist renowned for his exceptional carvings and jewelry that vividly depict Arctic wildlife and traditional Inuvialuit life. His work is celebrated for its flowing realism and intricate detail, capturing the essence of the animals and scenes he portrays.
Toronto Art Appraisal - Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
Growing up in the small community of Tuktoyaktuk, Taylor was immersed in the traditional Inuvialuit lifestyle, engaging in hunting and fishing alongside his family. His father, Bobby Taylor-Pokiak (1927–2005), a respected carver, introduced him to the art of carving in the late 1960s. Under his father's guidance, Taylor began working with hand tools on materials such as whalebone, caribou antler, and moose antler, creating small pieces like rings and pendants. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future artistic endeavors.
Artistic Development and Mediums
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Taylor expanded his repertoire by incorporating soapstone into his sculptures, a material that allowed for greater detail and expression. He also began experimenting with ivory jewelry, further diversifying his artistic output. Taylor has expressed a preference for working with harder varieties of stone, such as serpentinite or chlorite, as these materials enable him to achieve finer details in his pieces.
His sculptures often feature Arctic animals like polar bears, muskoxen, caribou, and beluga whales, as well as scenes depicting hunters and drum dancers. Taylor's ability to capture the natural flow and movement of these subjects reflects his deep connection to the land and his keen observational skills.
Exhibitions and Recognition
Taylor's work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions across Canada and the United States. Notably, he has been a regular exhibitor at the Great Northern Arts Festival since 1998 and was selected as the featured artist on posters for the 2002 gathering. His contributions to the arts have been recognized in publications such as the Inuit Art Quarterly, highlighting his significant impact on the Inuit art community.
Studio and Community Engagement
Currently based in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Taylor operates out of Frozen Rock Studio. The studio has initiated a public workshop to educate visitors about carving techniques and the indigenous traditions of the region, reflecting Taylor's commitment to cultural preservation and education.
Artistic Philosophy and Legacy
Taylor's artistic philosophy centers on accentuating the natural shape of the stone and economizing on material use. He emphasizes the importance of observing and learning from other artists and elders, viewing the carving process as a communal exercise that keeps culture alive. His dedication to his craft and his community has solidified his reputation as a master carver, inspiring both contemporaries and future generations.
Through his meticulous craftsmanship and deep cultural insights, Derrald Taylor continues to contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of Inuit art, ensuring the stories and traditions of the Inuvialuit people are preserved and celebrated.
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