Malaya Kisa-Knickelbein (they/she) is a young Inuk born in Iqaluit and raised throughout the three regions of Nunavut. 

They showcase their culture through art, an important aspect in all her work, as she continues her family history of artists.

Malaya is both self-taught and community-taught; with expertise in digital art, traditional tattooing, beadwork, printmaking, and painting. They grew up inspired by family members who were printmakers and seamstresses in Pangnirtung, as well as by the multidisciplinary craft techniques learned throughout their education. Malaya is dedicated to developing a unique artistic voice that is contemporary yet incorporates traditional elements and imagery.

Their line-work drawing translates into their tattoo practice, which they have been developing since the summer of 2020 with the support and guidance of other amazing and talented traditional tattoo artists. Malaya create's both traditional and contemporary tattoos using the hand poke method.