Born in Kinngait (Cape Dorset, NU), Ottokie Samayualie is the son of the talented local artists: Johnny and Kuluajuke Tunnillee. Following the artistic path passed on through the family, Ottokie Samayualie began carving at nine. He takes great care in choosing the finest serpentine of varying shades, from olive green to black, which he then smooths and polishes to best exhibit the stone's lustre. His favourite subject to carve is the bear, which he presents in many different and dynamic poses.