This attractive, slightly oversize volume (9.5x11<">) provides an introduction to the different types of Inuit art produced in the Canadian Arctic from prehistoric times through the present. Ingo Hessel (for several years he was affiliated with the Canadian Inuit Art Information Centre) focuses the survey on sculpture, graphic arts, and textiles. The volume is organized chronologically, with initial chapters on the development of Inuit art, the geography of the Arctic and history of the Inuit people who live there, and major artistic themes and subjects. Three chapters focus on each type of art considered sculpture, graphic arts, and textiles. The volume is well illustrated with b&w and color plates. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)