Gallery I: Artistic History and Thematic Foundations of Inuit Art

The first gallery examines the evolution of art in Canada's Arctic through the recognized historical periods; prehistoric Thule culture; post-European contact; and early modern Inuit art. This space also showcases the themes that are based on traditional culture and that have inspired so much Inuit art; belief systems (shamanism, spirits and tranformation), myths and legends (e.g. the sea goddess), animals, the human figure, community life, the roles of men and women, modes of transportation, and hunting by land and by sea.

 

Gallery II: Diversity of Styles and Artistic Expression

The second gallery provides an overview of modern artistic styles and media that have evolved in Canada's Arctic in the various regions and major communities, thus reflecting the scope and depth of artistic expression within Inuit art. The varied media employed in Inuit sculpture - stone, bone, antler, ivory and ceramic - are represented as prints, drawings and textiles. The major regional styles represented are: Nunavik (Arctic Quebec), Qikiqtaaluk (Baffin Island), Kivalliq (Keewatin), and Central Arctic miniatures, and Kitikmeot (Netsilik).

 

Gallery III: Masterworks and Contemporary Sculpture

The principal feature of the third gallery is the presentation of major works by leading Inuit artists, including Pauta Saila, Judas Ullulaq, Barnabus Arnasungaaq, Oviloo Tunnillie, and Lucy Tasseor Tutsweetok. This gallery also includes an installation of contemporary sculptures made mostly by younger artists, some now living in the South; these include David Ruben Piqtoukun, Abraham Anghik, Mattiusie Iyautuk and Manasie Akpaliapik.

 

Gallery IV and V: Special Exhibitions and Audio-Visual Presentation Centre

The fourth and fifth galleries are devoted to rotating special exhibitions. The goal of these exhibiition is to focus more specifically on particular artists, communities, themes and media. Some of these MIA exhibitions will travel to other museums; these spaces can also accomodate exhibitions from other institutions.

The centrally located Gallery IV can also be used as a space for audio-visual presentations and lectures.