KAKINIIT/HIVONIGHIJOTAA: Inuit Embodied Practices & Meanings

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Maudie Rachel Okittuq, "Sea Goddess," 1977

duffle, embroidery thread, 47.5 x 32 x 11 cm. Government of Nunavut Fine Art Collection. On long-term loan to the Winnipeg Art Gallery, 2.78.11 ab.

In many communities and nations, Indigenous cultural practices have been pushed underground by colonizing forces.

Kakiniit Hivonighijotaa: Inuit Embodied Practices and Meanings highlights the strength and resilience of Inuit culture in the face of intense suppression. Kakiniit (Inuit traditional tattoos) are a vital part of Inuit identity and were once banned by missionaries. Only within the last decade have they seen a revitalization.

The exhibition showcases Indigenous cultural reclamation and identity through the process of Inuit tattooing and its connection to shamanism. Kakiniit embraces Inuit culture and the reawakening of tradition in Indigenous communities.

Artists featured in KAKINIIT/HIVONIGHIJOTAA include Akitiq Sanguya, Omalluq Oshutsiaq, Maudie Rachel Okittuq, Germaine Arnaktauyok, William Noah, Jessie Oonark, Manasie Akpaliapik, Matthew Aqiggaaq, Abraham Kingmiaqtuq, Suzanne Tupitnerk Mablik, Paul Toolooktook, Ningiukulu Teevee, and Judas Ullulaq. 

Artwork is from the WAG’s extensive permanent collection of Inuit art and the Government of Nunavut Collection, on long-term loan to WAG-Qaumajuq. 

Kakiniit (Inuit traditional tattoos) are a vital part of Inuit identity. The tattoos were once banned by missionaries, and only within the last decade have they seen a revitalization. 

KAKINIIT/HIVONIGHIJOTAA: Inuit Embodied Practices & Meanings is produced in partnership with Inuit Futures as a part of the 22nd Inuit Studies Conference: Auviqsaqtut. 

“Inuit Embodied practices vary across the north in meaning and values. From individual experiences, community, family, gender, partnership, motherhood and so on. This exhibition is to show the process of traditional Inuit tattoos, and that does not only include an individual being tattooed but the thoughts, care, meaning, and history behind it.” 

— Zoe Ohokannoak, Guest Curator, KAKINIIT/HIVONIGHIJOTAA: Inuit Embodied Practices & Meanings 

“It was wonderful to assist and mentor Zoe with this exhibition. Kakiniit are a vital part to Inuit history and our culture, and I am glad that Zoe has highlighted their importance and beauty within the works chosen from the expansive WAG-Qaumajuq Inuit art collection.” 

— Jocelyn Piirainen, Associate Curator of Inuit Art, WAG-Qaumajuq 

“The curators have created something vital and compelling with KAKINIIT/HIVONIGHIJOTAA; the gallery space is full with stunning art from exemplary Inuit artists. It’s a show not to be missed.” 

— Dr. Stephen Borys, Director & CEO, WAG-Qaumajuq