Iqqaipaa, which means "I remember" in Inuktitut, remembers the early years of contemporary Inuit art - the two decades between 1948 and 1970 - a period of overwhelming change in the lives of most Inuit. In 1948, the majority of Canada's Inuit lived in family camps, much like their ancestors had done for centuries. By the time the government of the Northwest Territories was established in 1970, most had settled in permanent villages and abandoned their nomadic lifestyle. The art produced by the Inuit during this time of transition is about memories. As the Inuit adapted to a new way of life, remembering the old ways through their art helped maintain a sense of cultural identity. The establishment of Nunavut territory in 1999 is another important milestone in the history of Canada's Inuit. To mark this memorable occasion, Iqqaipaa celebrates Inuit creativity as reflected in early contemporary Inuit art. All exhibition photographs by Harry Foster.
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Iqqaipaa
