This Is What I See: Arvaaq Books

Looee Arreak lives in Iqaluit, Nunavut. However, she grew up in Pangnirtung, Nunavut, which is one of the most beautiful Baffin Island communities, located just south of the Arctic circle. As a child, Looee would spend much of her time out on the land with her family. She would often be playing on top of large rocks, looking over vast spaces of land and deep waters. Listening to the sounds of nature, Looee would be singing along with the birds. Getting lost in time, getting inspired by the environment, making and creating her own sounds. Looee is an award winning Inuktitut singer and songwriter. She has been esteemed to be the most prolific artist in her field. Her music is original. And her songs are lyrical, full of beautiful sounds, and capture themes of hope, strength, playfulness, and love of family and land. Looee has released three of her own albums. She has toured all over Nunavut and Nunavik. Her music is constantly being played on Inuktitut radio stations. Her songs are covered by young musicians who look up to her as a mentor. Looee recently composed a song ¿Qaujimavunga Kinummangaarma - I know Who I Am,¿ which was premiered and sung by the Cantiamo Choir of Ottawa at the Ottawa Chamberfest. Looee is passionate about Inuit language preservation and creativity. She is regularly commissioned to teach Inuit youth and facilitates musical youth training and master workshops. Looee is married to James T. Arreak, and they have six children together.