RUBEN ANTON KOMANGAPIK (RAK)

Biography

Komangapik had learned the stone carving process working with his father at the age of 9. In 1997, he graduated from the Jewellery / Metalwork Program at Nunavut Arctic College in Iqalut, NU. Since then, his work has been featured in numerous exhibitions garnering many awards. He has completed commissions collaborating with various teams for the Nunavut Legislative Assembly; participated in Stone Symposiums; and presenting a Silver Qulliq & Caribou Antler Stand to the Honourable Governor General of Canada, The Right Honourable Romeo Leblanc, in celebration of the New Nunavut Territory at its inaugural reception in Ottawa. His mixed-media stone work, mixed-media metal and natural bone works are part of private and public collections. Komangapik was elected into the Sculptors Society of Canada in 2024. He maintains a studio in Foxboro ON.

Art Statement

My work often portrays Inuit existence in its present form as I have lived it along with the traditions including mythology of my culture handed down through generations.

I am energized to tackle subjects that invoke conversation and curiosity, not division. The sculptures take forms that are attractive in their own right regardless of themes, using blends of natural materials of the Arctic I know so well along with fabricated modern elements.

My creation process is much about having an intent and a purpose. They can invoke discussion and learning.