While the North covers over one third of the country’s land mass, fewer than two per cent of Canadians will ever set foot there. Qaumajuq is a place to build our relationships as a country, and to deepen the world’s understanding of Canada. Qaumajuq will also be a cornerstone for building capacity among emerging Inuit arts and heritage professionals, a place for mentorship, learning, and intercultural dialogue.
“I am extremely proud and happy for the Inuit artists whose artworks are now on display. I celebrate with them, and I am proud that many Inuit were involved in this preparation of Qaumajuq. The name of the building and the different rooms in Qaumajuq all have Indigenous language names selected by the Language Keepers. This really was a change in the old paradigm, ending the colonial system style as the Indigenous way took place.” — Theresie Tungilik, WAG Board and Indigenous Advisory Circle member
In addition to the WAG collection, Qaumajuq is the temporary home of the Government of Nunavut’s fine art collection. Due to a lack of space and resources, the collection was largely in storage in various locations since 1999, when the territory of Nunavut was established.
