Great Northern Arts Festival

By Maung Tin

The opening ceremony of the 22nd annual Inuvik Great Northern Arts Festival (GNAF) took place on July 9, 2010 at the recreational centre inside the Midnight Sun Complex. The night was made memorable with Inuvik drummers, dancers, and singers, whose music, dance and song brought liveliness and filled everyone’s eyes and ears with excitement. Bright flashes from cameras illuminated the entertainers from all sides. As time elapsed, the sounds and movements became more intense drawing the audience onto the stage to unleash the rhythm in their body.

From July 9th to the 18th, creative works of over 60 different Northern artists and of artists across Canada were displayed filling every corner. From carvings, paintings, sewing, beading, leather works, metal works, to handcrafted jewellery were on display throughout the Festival. For many established artists, the Festival has become a place they call home and where they return each year. For new artists, it is a place where they can introduce their works to a wider audience and promote their craft. The Festival also allows them a chance to interact and grow in the artist community.

During the Festival, spectators from across Canada and around the world poured in to the center looking for a unique purchase, others simply wanted to be part of the experience in enjoying artwork that translates the culture of the Canadian North.∞

GNAF Fashion Show

Inspiring to make you look bold, feel smart and be beautiful.

CURTIS TAYLOR, CARv ERTUKTOYAKTUK, NT

At the age of twelve inspired by his father, Curtis Taylor began carving with caribou antler like his father and later moved on to carving with soapstone. Today at twentythree, Taylor has become a well-known artist in the Northwest Territories. People from all across Canada, U.S., Japan and China appreciate Taylor’s sculptures.

Artists under the Limelight

MARY ANN TAYLOR, CARvER - TUKTOYAKTUK, NT. Mary Ann was born in Tuktoyaktuk and began carving nine years ago, learning from her father and her brothers. She has exhibited her work locally and at previous festivals.

H AOGAK , EAMSTRESS - S ACHS ARBOUR , NT

Haogak has been a seamstress for years. Her fine creations include fancy shoes embroidered with colorful flowers; from concept to finished product crafted by her own hands.