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IQALUIT - When it comes to his metalwork, senior high student Iola Tikivik is inspired by his other hobbies and interests, from video games to more traditional images.

Born and raised in Iqaluit, Tikivik began the jewelry program at Inuksuk High School three years ago, impressing those around him with his skill and natural talent for the art form.

High school jewelry student Iola Tikivik has been working with metal for the past three years, creating pieces themed around his favourite video games, music bands and skateboarding, as well as traditional images. - Carolyn Sloan/NNSL photo

"My favourite bands or favourite video games, or skateboarding stuff and a few traditional things," he said, describing the subject matter for the pieces he has made.

While he works with brass and copper, his favourite material to use is silver.

"It's really good to see once you make something," said Tikivik. "It looks really cool."

The young artisan enjoys it when people ask him about his work, which he has also sold at local craft sales.

"I made over $200," he said, talking about his last sale in December.

Last week, he was invited to give an informal demonstration of his work at the high school while the Territorial Skills Competition was taking place.

When he's not at school, Tikivik has a job at the arena, driving the Zamboni and helping to clean the facility.

Hanging out with friends, playing hockey, hiking and building tunnels are also high priorities when he has some free time.

The only brother to five sisters, Tikivik's father is also an artist and a Canadian Ranger involved in search and rescue. Every summer, his dad and the rest of his family would go to a camp across the bay.

"I love the North, the land," he said. "My family, I love them so much."

In terms of the future, Tikivik hopes to go into the Nunavut Sivuniksavut Training Program after high school and then return home to his community.

I'd like to "learn more of my culture," he said.