Ramus Avingaq was born in Iqaluit in 1977 and has lived in Igloolik ever since. An artist since early childhood, Mr. Avingaq focuses on drawing, but he also works with sculpture. He credits his mother, who taught him how to draw, as a major influence on his work.

Mr. Avingaq says his drawings are unique when compared to traditional Inuit art, as they do not always present typical Inuit themes.

His winning entry for the National Aboriginal Day 2000 Poster Competition, titled "Tugurlaaq," is a story about a powerful female shaman who can read people's thoughts.

The young artist, whose favourite subject matter is dragons, uses a felt pen when drawing, which also sets his work apart visually. When he was in grade five, Mr. Avingaq won a drawing contest in which well-known artist, writer and filmmaker James Houston presented him with a prize. As well, he has been carving since he was seven years old, a talent he developed from watching his father carve stone. Most of his carvings are of small subjects, such as loons. He works on his art either at home or at the local youth centre, and sells his pieces locally.