INUIT ARTS & HANDICRAFTS
Baffin Island has been home to different groups of Inuit for more than 5,000 years, in what is perceived by many to be one of the most challenging places on earth, the treeless tundra of the Arctic coastline. Inuit knowledge, customs and teachings are passed down from generation to generation through oral storytelling, and their artistic styles are influenced by thousands of years of this knowledge, as well as by the materials accessible to them. Soapstone, a relatively soft sculpting material, has been used by the Inuit to portray scenes of local animals and people for over 7,500 years. Historically, the Inuit took pride
in beautifying their rugged surroundings by decorating their garments and by carving items from bone, wood, antler, ivory and stone. Printmaking is also a popular Inuit art form. Today, these authentic Inuit pieces are much sought after by tourists visiting Pangnirtung (or Pang, as locals call it).
To the Inuit, theirs is a beautiful land; their passion for it is expressed in the variety of their artistic works.
BAFFIN ISLAND DESTINATION GUIDE | 17
Powered by FlippingBook