Qikiqtaaluk
Baffin Region

Sculpture from the Baffin region is known for its visual appeal, playfulness and elegance. Artists from this region have used a locally harvested, richly veined green stone that is easy to polish, and encourages surface detail and complexity.

Cape Dorset developed into a major northern art community due to James Houston's presence from 1951 to 1962. The first generation of artists established a tradition of stylized naturalism, with dancing bears and fragile magical birds as favourite themes. Under Houston's guidance, the earliest prints were created in Cape Dorset.

In Kimmirut, some local artists perfected the art of scrimshaw (engraving on ivory), a technique they had learned from American and Scottish whalers.

Pangnirtung also received an inheritance from former whaling days. Its artists took advantage of whalebone that had been left on beaches a century ago. The natural shape of the bone often inspired the theme of the carving.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EXHIBIT

Houston's Portrait
1954
Pudlat Pootoogook (1919-1985)
Cape Dorset
Stone, ivory and wood
Collection of James Houston

Taleelajuq
c. 1960
Iyola Kingwatsiak (1933)
Cape Dorset
Stone
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Gift of the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, 1989

Walrus
1962
Osuitok Ipeelee (1923)
Cape Dorset
Stone and ivory
Collection of James Houston

Human Dog Spirits in Slipper
1955
Unidentified artist
Pangnirtung
Stone
Collection of James Houston

Engraved Narwhal Tusk
c. 1965
Davidee Itulu (1929)
Kimmirut
Ivory and ink
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Gift of John Hallward, Montreal, 1997

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