Inuit Art
Cape Dorset, now known as Kinngait, is often referred to as the "Capital of Inuit Art." Located on Dorset Island in Nunavut, Canada, this small community has gained worldwide recognition for its unique and striking artworks, particularly in printmaking and sculpture.
The Inuit of Cape Dorset have long expressed their connection to the natural world and their cultural heritage through art. This tradition gained international attention in the mid-20th century thanks to the establishment of the West Baffin Eskimo Co-operative in 1959, now known as Kinngait Studios. The co-op provided resources and a platform for local artists to develop their skills and distribute their work globally.
Famous for Printmaking
Cape Dorset is best known for its printmaking. Each year, the studio releases an annual print collection of 30-60 images, featuring works by local artists. These prints depict Arctic wildlife, mythology, and images that represent the Inuit way of life and often surreal imagination. Even though we call it art, but interestingly, there is no equivalent word in Inuktitut. One of the words used for art in Inuktitut is ‘isumanivi’, which means “your own thoughts.” Artists use methods like stonecut, etching, lithograph and stencil to create these vivid and captivating works. Kinngait Studios is the longest continuous running print studio in Canada.
All prints are in edition of 50, unless otherwise noted. In addition, three proofs have been pulled. The printer is indicated by the personal chop which appears on each print. Each of the art works is individually signed by the artist.
