Tukilik: the Inukshuk and Inuit Art from the McMichael Canadian Art Collection

Curator: Dr. Nancy Campbell

Kananginak Pootoogook (1935 2010)
Untitled (Stone Implements)
graphite on paper
56 x 71.2 cm
The Norman E. Hallendy Archives, Gift of Norman E. Hallendy and Diana Cousens, 2015
McMichael Canadian Art Collection Archives
ARC NH2015.6

Tukilik, an Inuktitut word defined as a “thing that has meaning”, is an apt title for this exhibition that explores the many meanings and artistic interpretations of inuksuit (plural of inukshuk) of Baffin Island. There are over 60 photographs, drawings, prints, and sculptures from the McMichael Canadian Art Collection including the Norman E. Hallendy Archives.

An inukshuk is a man-made, human-like structure constructed to assist in hunting; serve as a message, sign or signal; function as a marker; serve as a symbol; act as a memorial; or serve as a place of power and veneration. Inuksuit are among the oldest, and most sacred and important objects placed by humans upon the barren Arctic landscape. There are specific terms for different types of inuksuit that define the purpose of each structure, an example being inukshuk anirnilik, meaning an inukshuk that contains a spirit. In the last decade the inukshuk has become a familiar symbol of Inuit, their homeland and even Canada.

Explore the sophistication of the inukshuk through art.

Pudlo Pudlat (1916 1992)
Our Mystic Landscape 1990
coloured pencil and felt tip pen on paper
51 x 64.6 cm
The Norman E. Hallendy Archives, Gift of Norman E. Hallendy and Diana Cousens, 2015
McMichael Canadian Art Collection Archives
ARC NH2015.15