For thousands of years the Inuit utilized the available resources to eke out a living in the barren Arctic ecosystem. 90% of Nunavut Territory is above the treeline and for the Inuit, everything from housing to hunting tools had to come from sources other than wood.

The Inuit are unique as an aboriginal people in that all of the other aboriginal groups in North America used trees for teepees, longhouses, bow and arrow, birch bark canoes, and hundreds of daily chores.

Inuit learned how to carve soapstone and caribou antler to fabricate tools for hunting and day-to-day living. In the old days tools like the ulu knife, kudlik lamp, spear and arrow heads and other useful items were carved from stone.

Today soapstone carving has evolved into an art form, and Nunavut has many talented artisans. Our community of Gjoa Haven (pop 1,000) has 8-10 active soapstone carvers, 2-3 sketch artists, and 15-20 ladies who create beautiful wall hangings, and other sewn products like sealskin mitts and caribou boots.

If you are interested in exploring the purchase of Inuit arts and crafts, we will be happy to connect you to any of the reputable artisans in Gjoa Haven for “carver direct” prices.