A Q&A with the curators of INUA
Qaumajuq’s inaugural exhibition is historic in itself—for the first time ever, a curatorial team represents all four regions of Inuit…
Indigenous Sovereignty
Creating
Representation
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The artwork was commissioned by the Manitoba Teachers’ Society “to honour teachers all around us—in the land and in our lives—who reveal the truth, wisdom and beauty that connect us all.” Titled Tuniigusiia/The Gift, Ashoona’s multi-faceted sculpture reflects knowledge transfer through education and storytelling, and the important role teachers play in our communities. Watch this video to learn more about the sculpture and the artist:
Credit: This video was originally published by the The Winnipeg Art Gallery on January 21, 2021. COURTESY WINNIPEG ART GALLERY-QAUMAJUQ.
Born in 1967 in Kinngait, Nunavut, carver Goota Ashoona’s work is found in the WAG’s permanent collection. She creates out of Ashoona Studios in Elie, Manitoba. Goota Ashoona is a third generation Inuit artist, and is the daughter of artist Kiawak Ashoona and granddaughter of printmaker Pitseolak Ashoona. A multi-disciplinary artist, Ashoona carves primarily in soapstone and whale bone, has also produced several wall hangings and made traditional Inuit dolls. She is an accomplished throat singer.
Carved from Verde Guatemala marble, Ashoona’s sculpture is featured in Qaumajuq’s Outdoor Plaza, recently named Nutaaq Tummaqtuyuq, Inuvialuktun for “big steps forward”. The plaza’s name was chosen by a circle of Indigenous Language Keepers.
This story is part of the Qaumajuq Partner Spotlight. View more content from the Spotlight here.
