Inuit art in 2007
Cape Dorset Winter 2007
Each time I travel in Nunavut to gather new artworks I always imagine James Houston first venture in Cape Dorset. He came first with a dog team and lived among the Inuit in small houses and Igloos. His goal was to introduce a new production of artwork in order to help the Inuit earn a living and survive the new sedentary life. He must have wondered if his venture would give results.
We are now in the 21st century and only 60 years after Houston first visit in the North. Inuit art is now recognized worldwide and the production of Inuit art is astonishing not only in quality but also in volume. No one could have predicted such a success.
The plane is landing on the strip and I am heading for my small hotel room miles from home. The temperature is -30 C without the wind-chill and wonder why Inuit worry about global warming … (sic) I travel to Cape Dorset to gather new artworks but also and mostly to get in contact with the artists and their changing world.
Inuit are now experiencing tremendous change and many cultural traits of traditional Inuit culture are vanishing with the waves of satellite TV and Internet. However, art producing has become a crucial factor in the definition of Inuit Identity in the new century. The greatest carvers are respected and can earn a decent living. Young Inuit start by carving small Inukshuk with the dream of having the reputation of Qiatsuq, Parr, Ipeelie among others.
In these new realities, the greatest hunters have now become the best carvers. They are respected providers for their family, the community and Inuit culture. Still those who can do both are even more respected underlying the transition between generations. Inuit art is an art form in constant evolution with a great future filled with amazing talents.
Robert
