Pitsiula grew up in Kimmirut and learned carving as a young boy from both his parents. He started by sanding down his parents’ carvings and when he was almost a teenager, he began to create his own works of art. At first he worked with hand tools, later he learned to use power tools.
Pitsiula Qimirpik working at Canadian Arctic Gallery, Basel 2004
(Photo: © Canadian Arctic Gallery, Switzerland)
Pitsiula had a connection to the owl. His mother had an owl as a little girl that was abandoned. She said the owl followed her everywhere, and even when it learned to fly, it always came back. Pitsiula’s mother told him the story of the owl when he was a little boy, and so he started carving owls… His mother inspired him to carve, and it became his passion.
Pitsiula Qimirpik at a short break at Canadian Arctic Gallery, Basel 2004
(Photo: © Canadian Arctic Gallery, Switzerland)
On September 3, 2004 we opened the solo exhibition ‘Pitsiula Qimirpik’. On the occasion of the opening we invited Pitsiula and RJ Ramrattan from Canadian Arctic Producers to Basel. We were able to enjoy the opening of the exhibition in beautiful fall weather and the collectors were also pleased to meet the artist in person.
Pitsiula Qimirpik with collectors at Canadian Arctic Gallery, Basel 2004
(Photo: © Canadian Arctic Gallery, Switzerland)
But art wasn’t the only thing at the center of the action. As Pitsiula and RJ are just as crazy about football as my husband, they attended the Switzerland-Ireland World Cup qualifier together in St. Jakob Park that evening.
Christian Grunder, Pisiula Qimirpik and RJ at the soccer game in St. Jakob Park, Basel 2004 (Photo: © Canadian Arctic Gallery, Switzerland)
For the artists of the Arctic, a visit to the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe – is always an unforgettable highlight. The majestic view of the snow-capped peaks and the breathtaking Alpine landscape leaves a lasting impression. If the weather cooperates and the view can sweep far into the valley, the experience becomes even more impressive – an encounter of Arctic and Alpine beauty at the highest level.
Ursula & Christian Grunder and Pisiula Qimirpik on Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, 2004 (Photo: © Canadian Arctic Gallery, Switzerland)
On October 15, 2024, Pitsiula died in a boating accident near his home community while searching for serpentinite for new works of art with his son. Grateful to have spent great times and laughed together with him, we remember these precious moments.
Pisiula Qimirpik enjoying a ride by the ferry on the Rhine, Basel 2004
(Photo: © Canadian Arctic Gallery, Switzerland)