The Inuvik Beaufort Delta is the northernmost region of the Northwest Territories. Encompassing the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (along the territory’s Beaufort Delta coast) and portions of the Gwich’in Settlement Area (in the Mackenzie Valley), the region has about 7,500 residents living in eight communities. The Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and the Gwich'in Tribal Council are the region’s Self-Governing Organizations. They have a vested interest in the artists of the region and work to improve the Economic, Social and Cultural well being of all Inuvialuit and Gwich'in.
The completion of the Dempster Highway in 1979 gave this remote area access to a variety of multicultural influences. Still, the region’s traditional ways remain a strong part of cultural gatherings, celebrations and of course, art.
Artists utilize raw materials that are harvested locally. Polar bear, wolverine, muskox, seal, wolf, white fox, and caribou provide food and durable hides that can be tanned and sewn into warm clothing, footwear and bedding. Remaining materials such as horns and claws, are used to create beautiful pieces of art. Soapstone from the area is commonly used to carve images of wildlife, shamans and other legends of the area.
The Delta Braid originates from this region and is a rare form of art still practiced today. This beautiful form of appliqué is ribbons of geometric patterns made from layers of multi-coloured bias tape and seam bindings. Used for generations to distinctly decorate parkas and dresses, artists originally used fur or skins to create the intricate patterns. When fur traders arrived in the region, they brought colourful European fabrics and threads, enabling artists to embellish their patterns with bright colours. Each Delta Braid is unique and tells a story about the history of its artist and how they choose to create this cultural piece of art.
Artists in the Hamlet of Ulukhaktok (formerly known as Holman), have a very different history of artistic expression. Western-style and eastern-style drum dancing and a unique style of printmaking are among some of the most common forms of art found in this remote community. Many residents have artistic backgrounds and are involved with the Ulukhaktok Arts Centre in producing prints, tapestries, sewing and other crafts.
Current Regional Updates
Industry, Tourism, and Investment Staff in the Inuvik Region work hard to support local Artisans through the Support for Entrepreneur and Economic Development (SEED) Policy, the NWT ARTS Program, logistical support for Festivals, workshops, and meetings within the Region and beyond.
With support from ITI, Jewelry designer Jamie Look will be traveling to Inuvik June 1st and 2nd to teach a Jewelry Making Workshop at the Ingamo Friendship Centre.
Current Regional Events
National Aboriginal Day - June 21st - Territorial Holiday with events in all communities. Please contact town offices for more details.
Inuvik
Tourism Week - June 15th - 21st - Daily Events to be announced. The Arctic Market will be open every day.
Arctic Market - Every Saturday from June to August.
Inuvik Petroleum Show - June 24th -25th
Great Northern Arts Festival - July 11-20th - This festival features up to 80 visual artists and 40 performers from across the north!
Inuit Circumpolar Conference - July 21-24th - 1,000 people are expected to come to Inuvik
Northern Games - July 21st - 27th
8th Annual End of the Road Music Festival - August 22nd - 24th- Come on down to the Midnight Sun Complex and Jim Koe Park to enjoy two days of music, dancing, and fun!
Ulukhaktok
Kingalik Jamboree - June 14th - 15th - Celebrate the return of the King Elder Duck (Kingalik) with traditional events, outings, dancing, contests, and more!
Fort McPherson
Midway Lake Festival - August 3-5th - Bring your tent and celebrate music at this annual, family festival!
Paulatuk
Ikhalukpik Jamboree - August - Celebrate the return of the Arctic Char with traditional games, drum dances, and competitions!
Sachs Harbour
White Fox Jamboree - Carnival, traditional games, fishing derby and races. May long week-end