Mike Kotaigo began carving at the age of fifteen. He is a self-taught sculptor, and was inspired to carve by watching other artists in the community. Mike uses a variety of materials to carve such as ivory and antler, but prefers carving stone because it is not as fragile. His favourite subjects to carve are birds and seals. Mike’s wife, Akeego Killiktee, is a carver in Kimmirut. Their adopted daughter, Saa Kotaigo is also a carver.