Inuit Art, Knowledge and “Staying Power”
Inuit Art, Knowledge and “Staying Power”: Perspectives from Pangnirtung by Alena Rosen A Thesis submitted to the Faculty of Graduate Studies of The University of Manitoba in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of MASTER OF ARTS Department of Native Studies University of Manitoba Winnipeg Copyright © 2013 by Alena E. Rosen i ABSTRACT This thesis explores the relationship between Inuit art making, knowledge, and the process of cultural continuity or resilience, beginning with a review of relevant theory and literature focusing on concepts of voice, location and representation, and ending with an analysis based on interviews with art makers in Pangnirtung. I argue that through their creative practices, Panniqtuumiut and other Inuit artists are actively involved in the production and transmission of Inuit knowledge, an action that supports the process of cultural resilience. Specifically, this occurs as knowledge is materialized in works of art, circulated, and transmitted/interpreted. This project explores a critical approach to the interpretation of works of Inuit art, and the place of Inuit voice in that process. ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Qujannamiik! Without the assistance and support of the following people, this project would not have been possible. Qujannamik Matana & Jeannie Alivaktuk, Ooleepika Arnaqaq, Kelly Karpik, Madeleine Komoartuk, Eric Joamie, Ron Mongeau; interpreters Henry Mike, Martha Pitsiulak and Bill Kilabuk; and the community of Pangnirtung at large. Most of all a big qujannamiik-paluk to the artists and their families: Evie Anilniliak, Anna Akulujuk, Jolly Atagoyuk, Mary Battye , David Kilabuk, Jimmy Kilabuk, Elisapee Ishulutaq , Jaco Ishulutaq , Norman Komoartuk, Manasie Maniapik , Henry Mike, Pauloosie Nauyuq, Andrew Qappik , Norman Qupee, Annie Pitsiulak, Simeonie and Martha Pitsiulak.
[Show full text]