Bear Shaman

Description

Basil Aptanik’s step-mother, the late Martha Aptanik (1915-1972), was a Baker Lake carver and printmaker. His step-brother, Paul Toolooktook, is also a well-known Baker Lake sculptor.Aptanik worked as a printer at the Sanavik print shop between 1970 and 1972, producing six prints in three collections.This is a highly unusual piece in both subject matter and form. The Shaman Bear is holding a Shamanic mask carved from bone in one hand and appears ready for battle !