Kalvak, Helen (1901–1984)

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Kalvak, Helen (1901–1984)

Canadian Inuit folk artist. Born 1901 at Tahiryuak Lake, Victoria Island, Northwest Territories, Canada; died May 7, 1984, in Holman, Northwest Territories; dau. of Halukhit and Enataomik; m. Edward Manayok (died 1960); children: Elsie Nilgak, among others; grandmother of Julia Manoyok Ekpakohak (artist).

Lived the traditional migratory existence of the Inuit most of her life; moved into the settlement at Holman Island (1960), where she helped found the Holman Eskimo Cooperative (1961); created drawings depicting lives, beliefs, and traditions of Copper Inuit people of Northwestern Territories until Parkinson's disease limited use of her hands (1961–78); became internationally acclaimed at end of life and elected member of Royal Canadian Academy of Arts (1975). Made a member of the Order of Canada (1979).