Watch the virtual celebration here.
Celebrating the North in the South
Michael Maltzan, the architect who designed Qaumajuq, was inspired by an expedition to Nunavut where the team visited Inuit communities and artists’ studios. The undulating white stone of Qaumajuq’s façade hovers above the ground, as if floating over the glass-filled lobby. Its abstract quality recalls the vast scale of the North as well as the carved forms of the artwork within its walls. Discover the stunning Visible Vault, new gallery and learning spaces, the outdoor plaza, and main floor shop and café.
Art is a Voice
WAG-Qaumajuq holds in trust close to 14,000 pieces of Inuit art, including carvings, drawing, prints, textiles, and new media. Each piece has its own story to tell. Sharing these stories with the world is at the core of Qaumajuq. This is an engaging, accessible space to experience art in new ways, where artists and technology offer direct connections to the lands, peoples, and cultures of the North.
Inuit-Led
Inuit have guided the creation of Qaumajuq and lead the development of programs that will connect you with others, such as the inaugural show INUA. We have partnered with Inuit birthright organizations, governments, associations, and individuals across Inuit Nunangat and in urban and Southern communities to ensure Qaumajuq is a place where all Inuit feel welcome, engaged, and inspired to share their culture with the world. Creating spaces for Inuit elders to pass their teachings on to the broader community is critical to building bridges of understanding – between cultures, between North and South, and between generations. Together, we are developing programs that enrich the Qaumajuq experience for everyone. Read our FAQs below.
FAQs
It is essential to WAG-Qaumajuq that we acknowledge the colonial history of our permanent collection. We recognize that art galleries have historically been part of the colonial structure of perpetuating racism and oppression, and we are committed to dismantling these systems.
The Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) has long been present in Winnipeg and was instrumental to the early development of the global Inuit art market. In the 1950s, carvings were purchased at fur trading posts in Inukjuak, Puvirnituq, Kinngait, and several other Inuit communities. Since the 1950s, Inuit have owned and operated artist co-operatives. Carving stone was locally quarried and distinctive to each community. The carvings came South by boat in the late summer or fall and were sold at the Handicrafts Guilds in Montreal (est. 1949) and Winnipeg (est. 1952), and in HBC stores across the country. Large private collections were formed in Winnipeg because of access to the bulk of the carvings that came to the HBC headquarters in the city. For more information on HBC’s history of collecting Inuit art, click here.
These private collections were formed, most notably, by Jerry Twomey, George Swinton, Bessie Bulman (head of the Guild), her sister Eileen Abbott, and HBC employees. Today, the WAG collection of Inuit art includes donations from these private collections. Our curators also maintain strong relationships with artists by visiting their homes, workspaces, and communities, and spending time with them on the land. We purchase works directly from the artists in their communities, from their cooperatives, or through the global art market. In addition, we collaborate with other museums, galleries, and arctic co-ops to exhibit artworks on loan.
Today, more than 2,000 Inuit artists from many of the communities of Inuit Nunangat are represented in our permanent collection, totalling close to 14,000 pieces. While several thousand of the artworks are sculptural, we recognize and celebrate the fact that Inuit art extends to an evolving array of media including prints, textiles, clothing, and digital media, all present in our collection. Inuit art encompasses any work created by an Inuk. While it is often studied and regarded in an ethnically-oriented context, Inuit art is very much part of the cannon of art history and the future of contemporary art. The WAG Indigenous art collection includes work by Inuit, First Nations, and Métis artists. Learn more here.
The WAG recognizes that the history of our Inuit art collection is tied to the ongoing history of colonialism in North America. Fur trading posts disrupted the traditional and sustainable nomadic lifestyle of Inuit communities, contributing to the permanent settlement of many Inuit. We hope to shed light on this history, and bring Inuit voices to the forefront through more storytelling.
As a non-profit art museum, we are taking part in national conversations around reconciliation, and have developed an artwork provenance policy to further collaborate with Indigenous artists and their families. If an artwork is found to be acquired in an unethical manner by the WAG or by the individual or institution who collected the work prior to it entering the Gallery’s collection, we would move forward with the necessary steps towards repatriation. Public access to provenance information on all artworks in our collection is available. More information can be found here.
We care for the artworks so that their stories and the stories of the artists can continue to be shared for generations to come. We recognize that each artwork has a Spirit. An Indigenous Elder has been asked to care for the artwork the WAG holds. Since Treaty 1 territory is not the original homeland of Inuit art, it is important that the Spirit of the art is honoured and cared for. Ceremony and prayer take place regularly in all of our vaults for all of the art.
For an overview of the WAG’s defining collection areas, click here.
Qaumajuq builds on the WAG’s long history of collecting and exhibiting Inuit art and working with the leadership of Inuit partners and stakeholders. By amplifying the voices of the artists and promoting cultural understanding, we aim to support reconciliation, bringing us all closer together. Qaumajuq will be a cornerstone for building capacity among emerging Inuit arts and heritage professionals, a place for mentorship, learning, and intercultural dialogue.
Qaumajuq is not only a building, it is a cultural venue for Inuit in Canada, and a beacon of Inuit agency. Inuit partners have been integral to Qaumajuq’s conception, and are leading the development of design, exhibitions, and educational programming. We strive to provide a platform for Inuit voices and ensure all Inuit are welcomed.
Qaumajuq will bring the North to the South to deepen the world’s understanding of Canada. The North covers over one third of Canada’s landmass, yet fewer than two per cent of Canadians will ever set foot in the North. Qaumajuq will be a place to build and understand our relationships.
Inuit stakeholders look forward to having a ‘capital’ in Canada in which their art, histories, and stories can be shared with each other and with the world. We are working closely with Northern partners, and our relationship with the Government of Nunavut is fundamental.
Due to space and resources, in 2015 the Government of Nunavut (GN) entrusted the WAG with its Fine Arts Collection, which includes over 7,385 objects. This loan involves care, storage, exhibition, mentorship, and development of public educational programming. Qaumajuq will provide a temporary new home for the GN collection.
Over the past five years, we have collaborated with the GN to host artist and Elder residencies and mentorship training, tour exhibitions in northern communities, digitize the collection, and open WAG@The Forks, a shop providing increased market access to Inuit artists.
We are honoured to continue to support the GN’s efforts in creating increased awareness and exposure to the rich collection until its return to Nunavut. We are dedicated to caring for the Spirit of the art with Ceremony, while Treaty 1 is its home. We are committed to supporting the development of a cultural heritage centre in Inuit Nunangat by offering resources and expertise, and creating space for a sister relationship between these institutions and Qaumajuq.
Qaumajuq will bridge Canada’s North and South through exhibitions, research, education, and art making with Inuit voices at the forefront. We will continue to honour the legacies of Inuit artists through exhibitions curated by Inuit, programs, and events at WAG-Qaumajuq.
The WAG’s Indigenous Advisory Circle is at the heart of all of our decolonization and Indigenization work. The Circle provides leadership and counsel in the development and planning of related WAG exhibitions, education, community outreach, partnerships, and programming
The Circle is made up of representatives from the four regions of Inuit Nunangat: Inuvialuit Nunangit Sannaiqtuaq, Nunavut, Nunavik, and Nunatsiavut. Urban Inuit and circumpolar Inuit communities such as Alaska and Greenland are also represented, along with First Nations and Metis members from Manitoba and across the country.
Local community consultations have been essential in developing our mandate and purpose for Qaumajuq. Indigenous leaders in Winnipeg have been very generous with their time and sharing their knowledge. Leadership and Elders from all of the communities located on Treaty 1 have been engaged with our Indigenization journey. The Dakota Nation, whose unceded land on which the Gallery stands, has also been involved in conversations. The Metis Nation and the local Inuit community have been essential to Qaumajuq planning, from the project’s inception to the upcoming opening celebrations.
We acknowledge that without the input from the Anishinaabe, Ininawak, Dakota, Metis Nations, and the Manitoba Inuit community, the dream of Qaumajuq would not be a reality.
Indigenous Naming
Qaumajuq is the name that Indigenous language keepers gave to the Inuit art centre. Inspired by the light-filled spaces of the new building, Qaumajuq (pronounced KOW-ma-yourk and sometimes heard HOW-ma-yourk) means “it is bright, it is lit” in Inuktitut. This naming initiative is an important step on the Gallery’s Indigenization journey, responding to the UNDRIP and the TRC’s Calls to Action, both of which reference the importance of Indigenous languages.
Stories
Thursday, Jun 29 '23
New Virtual Tours
Explore the spaces of WAG-Qaumajuq with our new virtual tours that celebrate the architecture of the buildings and the stories behind the names of each…
Tuesday, Feb 28 '23
Introducing the new WAG-Qaumajuq Visual Identity
Notice something different around here? We’re pleased to present our new visual identity and a refreshed colour palette inspired by the natural light display of…
Thursday, Sep 29 '22
WAG-Qaumajuq Brand Identity Evolution
As the Winnipeg Art Gallery has evolved with the opening of Qaumajuq, the Gallery’s visual identity is also evolving to better reflect the important position…
Tuesday, Jul 5 '22
Nakatamaakewin Stencil Lesson
Stencil printmaking is a technique that has been used widely in Inuit Nunangat, especially in the communities of Ulukhaktok, Kinngait, and Pangirtung. Kellypalik Mangitak’s 1959…
Monday, May 30 '22
Shop the Germaine Arnaktauyok Print Sale
One of the goals of WAG-Qaumajuq is to connect our community to art in new and meaningful ways – whether that be through the exhibitions…
Friday, May 20 '22
From Considering a Burn to Into the Light
Head of Collections & Exhibitions, Riva Symko wrote about decolonizing museums in Anchorage Museum’s latest issue of Chatter Marks. In the article, From Considering a…
Wednesday, Mar 30 '22
Wrapping up the Inaugural Year
This spring marks the end of the inaugural year of Qaumajuq, and we are just getting started! Looking back on the last year, it is…
Friday, Mar 25 '22
Tuesday, Mar 1 '22
Catching up with Tarralik Duffy
In September 2021, Tarralik Duffy received the Kenojuak Ashevak Memorial Award, the Inuit Art Foundation’s biennial prize celebrating established mid-career Inuit artists in honour of…
Friday, Jan 7 '22
2021, Year in Review
What an extraordinary time to be part of the Winnipeg Art Gallery community! This year, we connected with our community online and on the road….
Sunday, Nov 7 '21
Thursday, Oct 28 '21
Tuesday, Oct 19 '21
In Studio with Megan Kyak-Monteith
INUA artist, Megan Kyak-Monteith takes us into her studio for some behind-the-scenes looks! Watch the video to hear Kyak-Monteith talk about her work and process:…
Monday, Oct 4 '21
The WAG at 50
On September 25, 1971, the current WAG building ceremoniously opened to the public with a visit from Princess Margaret. This three-part feature by the Winnipeg…
Friday, Oct 1 '21
Nutaaq Tummaqtuyuq: Outdoor Plaza
With the opening of Qaumajuq and the installation of two monumental sculptures, it was time to turn attention to the rest of the new outdoor…
Tuesday, Sep 28 '21
Wednesday, Sep 15 '21
Tuesday, Sep 14 '21
Hitting ‘Unmute’: Staying Connected in WAG’s Virtual Sessions
With the unprecedented challenges and changes of the last year, your support as WAG donors and members has helped keep us connected to students across…
Monday, Sep 13 '21
Instagram Take Over
INUA curators asinnajaq and Krista Ulujuk Zawadski took over the WAG-Qaumajuq Instagram! This was a great opportunity to learn more about the artworks on display…
Thursday, Sep 9 '21
Qaumajuq Ball invite
You can use your Qaumajuq Ball invite to create a structure of your own!
Tuesday, Sep 7 '21
Darcie Bernhardt Virtual Watercolour Workshop
In August 2021, emerging visual artist and curator, Darcie Bernhardt taught a virtual watercolour workshop, which included the process of creating a watercolour painting using…
Tuesday, Sep 7 '21
Fostering a Love for Art
Summer camp is back and the WAG is once again abuzz with young artists. Alongside clay and robotics themed camp weeks, the WAG launched a…
Monday, Sep 6 '21
Qaumajuq Centre Sets Tone for the Decolonization of Collections
Darlene Coward Wight, WAG-Qaumajuq Curator of Inuit Art talked about the new Inuit art centre with Rachel Ozerkevich of Art & Object. “Since 1961, WAG…
Friday, Aug 27 '21
Germaine Arnaktauyok: Creating a visual language
WAG-Qaumajuq Curator of Inuit Art, Darlene Coward Wight, wrote an article for Above & Beyond – Canada’s Arctic Journal about Germaine Arnaktauyok. “In 1998, I…
Thursday, Jul 29 '21
Explore Qaumajuq
Check out this fly-through video to explore Qaumajuq! We hope you enjoy the gorgeous footage and that it offers you a taste of what you…
Wednesday, Jul 21 '21
Tuesday, Jun 29 '21
Nunavut Shines through Qaumajuq
Read this blog in Inuktitut below. Qaumajuq is one of the latest additions to Canada’s arts and culture scene. You might be wondering, why build…
Tuesday, Jun 29 '21
Qaumajuq in the Paallirmiutut dialect means, “light (it gives off)”
Qaumajuq in the Paallirmiutut dialect means, “light (it gives off)” – by Dr. Norma Dunning What is light? How does it work? Is it only…
Sunday, Jun 27 '21
Siku Allooloo’s Akia
Watch Siku Allooloo discuss her work, Akia in this beautiful video. Allooloo is featured in INUA, the inaugural exhibition of Qaumajuq. Read the transcript of Akia…
Friday, Jun 25 '21
It’s YOU!
You’re what’s been missing from WAG-Qaumajuq. Our new building was open for a few weeks this past spring before the pandemic shut our doors again….
Sunday, Jun 13 '21
Thursday, Jun 10 '21
Thursday, Jun 3 '21
Gateway to the North
Read this blog in Inuktitut below The WAG is home to the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art in the world, with close to…
Monday, May 3 '21
Meet Glenn Gear!
Glenn Gear is a filmmaker and multi-disciplinary artist currently based in Montreal, Quebec, originally from Newfoundland. The emerging artist is featured in INUA, the inaugural exhibition…
Wednesday, Apr 28 '21
Sculpin Circle Tessellation Lesson
Sculpins are amazing fish that can be found in the waters throughout Canada’s arctic. They are small fish that dwell on the bottom of shallow…
Monday, Apr 5 '21
a dream come true
“My wish above all is that everyone who enters Qaumajuq may feel a sense of belonging – of coming home.” These were Richard Yaffe’s words…
Wednesday, Mar 31 '21
INUA Sneak Peek
INUA is the inaugural exhibition of Qaumajuq, the new Inuit art centre at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. In this sneak peek, each co-curator speaks about…
Tuesday, Mar 30 '21
Celebrating the Opening of Qaumajuq
At the end of March 2021, Qaumajuq (the Inuit art centre) opened virtually to Manitobans and audiences around the globe. While we couldn’t gather in…
Saturday, Mar 27 '21
Virtual Opening of Qaumajuq
Relive the two-part virtual celebration of Qaumajuq, the new Inuit art centre at the WAG. Presented by BMO Financial Group, the virtual opening of Qaumajuq happened…
Thursday, Mar 25 '21
Legislative Projections
Now until April 2 you can see Qaumajuq up in lights on our Legislative building – steps from the new centre! The Province of Manitoba…
Tuesday, Mar 23 '21
Peatr Thomas Artwork Commission
Check out this video to get a behind-the-scenes look at the artwork commission from Peatr Thomas in the Katita Cafe at Qaumajuq, the new Inuit…
Tuesday, Mar 23 '21
Friday, Mar 19 '21
Katita at Qaumajuq will celebrate art and community connection
WAG-Qaumajuq has partnered with CIRCA Catering to bring a new café to downtown Winnipeg. The name Katita, meaning “let’s get together” in Inuktitut, was given…
Wednesday, Mar 17 '21
Moving Art into the Visible Vault
The world’s largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art will soon be accessible for all to see in the new Visible Vault at Qaumajuq, the…
Tuesday, Mar 16 '21
Monday, Mar 15 '21
Monday, Mar 8 '21
Ceremony: Begin in a Good Way
As part of Qaumajuq’s opening celebrations, we held a day of Ceremony with Indigenous ceremonial leaders and Elders, to begin this new journey in a…
Friday, Feb 5 '21
Abraham Anghik Ruben Sculpture Unveiled at WAG-Qaumajuq
WAG-Qaumajuq unveiled a landmark new sculpture by Inuit artist Abraham Anghik Ruben this week outside of Qaumajuq. The stone carving, titled Time to Play, is…
Friday, Jan 22 '21
Goota Ashoona Sculpture Unveiled at WAG-Qaumajuq
WAG-Qaumajuq and the Manitoba Teachers’ Society unveiled a landmark new sculpture by Inuit artist Goota Ashoona this week outside of Qaumajuq. Carved from Verde Guatemala…
Sunday, Jan 10 '21
Maxine Anguk on Qaumajuq’s Digital Vault Platform
Maxine Anguk, Visible Vault Digital Platform Project Manager joined the WAG in June 2020 to prepare the new digital extension of Qaumajuq, the Inuit art…
Friday, Jan 1 '21
Qaumajuq365, the Inuit art centre inaugural year
Today marks the first day of Qaumajuq365, the Inuit art centre’s inaugural year! Starting tonight, we’ll be illuminating the two connected WAG-Qaumajuq buildings. These Northern…
Thursday, Nov 26 '20
A conversation with Jocelyn Piirainen on Carved in Stone: Sanannguaqtit ᓴᓇᓐᖑᐊᖅᑎᑦ
by Laura Friesen Carved in Stone: Sanannguaqtit ᓴᓇᓐᖑᐊᖅᑎᑦ, a new film profiling several Inuit artists whose works are part of the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s collection,…
Tuesday, Nov 24 '20
Free Membership for Youth and Indigenous Peoples in Light of Qaumajuq’s Opening
Let there be light: Qaumajuq, Inuktitut for “it is bright; it is lit” illuminates the rich terrain of creativity in Canada’s North. With its opening…
Wednesday, Oct 28 '20
Forwarding Reconciliation and Promoting Indigenous Languages
Over the summer, a circle of language keepers from Indigenous nations across Inuit Nunangat (the homeland of Inuit in Canada) and Treaty 1 Territory in…
Thursday, Oct 1 '20
Keep up with Inuit Art Centre Interactive Content
In the lead-up to the opening of the Inuit Art Centre in a few short months, we are continuing to share content celebrating this new…
Tuesday, Sep 15 '20
Inuit woman brought carved stone to life
In this Kingston Whig Standard article, WAG-Qaumajuq Curator of Inuit Art, Darlene Coward Wight gives insight into the life of Oviloo Tunnillie. The novice artist’s…
Thursday, Sep 3 '20
Caring for the Spirit of the art
Today was an important day at the WAG. With the leadership of Elders Clarence and Barbara Nepinak and their daughter Rebecca, Ceremony was held in…
Tuesday, Sep 1 '20
Sharing art with the world in a bigger, bolder way
Philanthropist Bob Williams will match up to $500,000 in donations to the Inuit Art Centre When Susan Thompson, Executive Consultant to the WAG Inuit Art…
Tuesday, Aug 25 '20
Canada Goose Project Atigi shared with all in the lead-up to Inuit Art Centre opening
Project Atigi, Canada Goose’s social entrepreneurship project in Canada’s North, has brought Inuit craftmanship to the world stage. It expanded Canada Goose’s northern roots and…
Monday, Jun 29 '20
Visible Vault Digital Stories Call for Aspiring Inuit Filmmakers and Videographers
Calling all Inuit filmmakers, videographers, and photographers! The WAG Inuit Art Centre is accepting topic submissions for 3-5 min. videos that: • Feature stories about…
Wednesday, Jun 3 '20
Art’s Learning Possibilities at the WAG and Online
Learning & Programs Coordinator Colleen Leduc is an Art Educator and Certified Art Therapist with a passion for connecting with people, whether in person or…
Saturday, May 9 '20
Kablusiak, Artist and Curator
Meet Kablusiak, a Sobey Art Award-shortlisted multidisciplinary Inuvialuk artist born in Somba K’e (Yellowknife). They bring perspectives from the Inuvialuit Settlement Region to the curatorial…
Monday, May 4 '20
It’s not generosity, it’s a requirement of life
Giving back comes naturally for Raymond and Charlene Curry. This inspiring couple provides loyal support to the WAG and contributes to the community in many…
Sunday, May 3 '20
My Daily Art
Winnipeg is a city of many nations and cultures. When it comes to architecture, this diversity is mirrored through a mix of regional, national, and…
Tuesday, Apr 14 '20
ICYMI: Inuit Art Education Through Technology
On every floor of the WAG, you can experience a wide range of Inuit art. Carvings, drawings, wall hangings, and multimedia projects created recently, and…
Thursday, Mar 19 '20
Tour the Inuit Art Centre with Heather Igloliorte
“There is going to be space here to look at Inuit art from the Inuvialuit region to the Nunatsiavut region, from Alaska straight through to…
Wednesday, Mar 18 '20
A message to Inuit Art Centre supporters
My heartfelt thoughts go out to each one of you, along with your families and friends. I hope you are doing well, and finding strength…
Saturday, Mar 14 '20
Art is a Voice
Art is a voice. The WAG’s Inuit Art Centre will invite the world inside to listen — and to respond. This video shows how art…
Monday, Mar 9 '20
Construction Update
Thank you for creating Canada’s Inuit Art Centre! Welcoming spaces for you are being created right now. We expect construction of the building to be…
Monday, Mar 9 '20
Re-connecting Families Through Art
In January, the WAG became a sharing and training centre for Nunavut-based arts workers. Trainings and knowledge exchanges like this will soon become a regular…
Monday, Mar 9 '20
Asinnajaq’s Powerful Voice
Inuit Art Centre becoming real “The tangibility of the Inuit Art Centre is increasing as the months go by,” says Asinnajaq, an Inuit artist and…
Thursday, Feb 20 '20
10 Striking Projects That Will Shape Architecture in 2020
New York. Hong Kong. Paris. Winnipeg. From South America to northern Norway, a modest cancer care centre to spectacular museums, the noteworthy architecture slated for…
Thursday, Jan 9 '20
Working through the winter
“The finish line is in sight,” reports Rick Chopp, Inuit Art Centre Construction Project Manager. Rick is in charge of ensuring the stunning Inuit Art…
Thursday, Jan 9 '20
If you can have one Inuk, why not have four?
Heather Igloliorte, lead curator for INUA, recalls when she was invited by the Winnipeg Art Gallery to be a curator for the Inuit Art Centre’s…
Thursday, Dec 5 '19
See the Stories, Add Your Support
Join the growing community, including Sam Lyons, who are championing Inuit art. Add your support by purchasing a shelf in the WAG Inuit Art Centre’s…
Tuesday, Nov 26 '19
What Do Inuit Artists Think of the WAG Inuit Art Centre?
Inuit artists Alina Tungilik, Goota Ashoona, Helen Kaloon and Melissa Attagutsiak, were in Winnipeg earlier this month to take part in the Crafted at the…
Monday, Nov 25 '19
Inuit Art Centre Construction Update
Construction continues at an energetic pace to insulate and close in the walls and roof of the WAG Inuit Art Centre before the arrival of…
Monday, Nov 25 '19
Empowering All Inuit
“I am one of the four curators representing all the different regions from across the Arctic,” Krista Ulujuk Zawadski says. “I see this opportunity, as…
Monday, Nov 25 '19
Conversation Through Architecture
Please read this Winnipeg Free Press story, if you haven’t already. The WAG Inuit Art Centre architect Michael Maltzan describes how the art, curatorial, second-floor…
Thursday, Oct 24 '19
WAG Inuit Art Centre Construction Tour
In the fall of 2019 we toured the WAG Inuit Art Centre with architect, Michael Maltzan, check out the behind the scenes footage! Video by…
Friday, Oct 18 '19
ICYMI: A Conversation with Dr. Heather Igloliorte
Working with Asinnajaq, Kablusiak, and Krista Ulujuk Zawadski, Dr. Heather Igloliorte leads the guest curatorial team developing the WAG Inuit Art Centre’s inaugural exhibitions. She was…
Tuesday, Oct 8 '19
Construction Time-lapse Video
Watch this time-lapse video of the WAG Inuit Art Centre – you’ll see the construction progress so far. The Centre is set to open in…
Tuesday, Oct 8 '19
Doors Set to Open in One Year
“Everything has to be perfect,” Rick Chopp, the Inuit Art Centre project manager is describing the upcoming glass installation for the visible vault. The vault…
Tuesday, Oct 8 '19
The North IS the future of Canada…
“The North IS the future of Canada in countless ways” is the key takeaway from the Report of the Special Senate Committee on the Arctic,…
Tuesday, Oct 8 '19
Face to Face with Inuit Art
“Cool!” This is the response of a student on an Inuit art tour when they see the Kakivak, a fishing spear made from Caribou antler…
Thursday, Aug 8 '19
Jocelyn Piirainen and Small Worlds: Inuit Miniature Carving
It’s been just a few short months since Jocelyn Piirainen moved to Winnipeg to take on the new role of Assistant Curator of Inuit Art…
Thursday, Aug 8 '19
Construction on track
The “bones” of the new WAG Inuit Art Centre are being put in place right now. Installation of close to 600 tons of structural steel…
Thursday, Aug 8 '19
The North West Company generous gift
In an announcement made June 12, 2019, The North West Company and its leadership confirmed their support of the WAG Inuit Art Centre with a…
Tuesday, Jun 18 '19
ICYMI: Inuit Futures In Arts Leadership
THE PILIMMAKSARNIQ/PIJARIUQSARNIQ PROJECT The WAG is very excited to have partnered in Inuit Futures in Arts Leadership: The Pilimmaksarniq/Pijariuqsarniq Project Social Sciences and Humanities Research…
Thursday, Jun 13 '19
WAG Announces a Major Gift to the Inuit Art Centre
Winnipeg, Manitoba, June 12, 2019: The Winnipeg Art Gallery is pleased to announce a generous gift in support of the Inuit Art Centre from The North West…
Thursday, Apr 18 '19
ICYMI: Nunavut Collection
In addition to the WAG Inuit art collection, we are honoured to be entrusted with the Government of Nunavut’s Fine Art Collection on a long-term…
Tuesday, Mar 5 '19
Exciting Vision Emerging for Inaugural Show
In last fall’s edition of myWAG, Dr. Heather Igloliorte, leader of the Inuit Art Centre’s inaugural exhibition guest curatorial team, revealed that the exhibition will…
Tuesday, Mar 5 '19
Manitoba Film Premiere
Thursday, April 18, 7pm screening, followed by reception The WAG and the Gimli Film Festival are pleased to co-present the Manitoba premiere of the award-winning…
Tuesday, Mar 5 '19
Young Philanthropists Visit
Participants from The Winnipeg Foundation’s Youth in Philanthropy program held a meeting at the WAG on January 15. Mayor Brian Bowman welcomed the Grade 11…
Tuesday, Mar 5 '19
‘Mind Exploding’ trip North Inspired Architect
Michael Maltzan’s feelings about architecture haven’t changed much since he first dreamed of becoming an architect at age 12. Now internationally renowned, Maltzan says, “What…
Tuesday, Mar 5 '19
Design presents challenges and opportunities for PCL Constructors
“Building the Inuit Art Centre means being a part of something that will impact the culture of Winnipeg and the whole country,” says Tom Schmalz,…
Wednesday, Jan 16 '19
ICYMI: Unlike Anything Else in the World
We are thrilled to have received a significant gift of $25,000 in support of the WAG Inuit Art Centre from Winnipeg couple Elizabeth (Liz) Marr…
Thursday, Dec 6 '18
Designed as an invitation to all
Your generous support is creating a place for people to gather together to learn, tell stories, celebrate art, and build bridges of understanding. Delivering engaging…
Thursday, Dec 6 '18
Connecting with the voices of art – a great time to visit the WAG!
Your support is helping the WAG introduce more people to the power of Inuit art, even before the Inuit Art Centre opens. We recently sent…
Thursday, Dec 6 '18
Inuit Art Centre designer creates warming huts for Winnipeg skaters
Each year, Winnipeg’s Warming Huts design competition receives entries from around the world for shelters that “push the envelope of design, craft and art.” To…
Thursday, Dec 6 '18
2020: a watershed year for Indigenous art
When the WAG Inuit Art Centre opens in 2020, it will increase Canadians’ understanding and appreciation of Inuit art, perspectives and history, and build bridges…
Wednesday, Nov 21 '18
Video: Art is a Voice
Art is a voice. The WAG Inuit Art Centre will invite the world inside to listen–and respond. This video shows how art can inspire and…
Thursday, Oct 25 '18
Connecting and learning in WAG Inuit Art Centre Education Suite
Education through the voices of art is a cornerstone of the WAG’s mission, and there is a new space dedicated to it in the WAG…
Thursday, Oct 25 '18
Desire to raise awareness of Inuit art leads to $1 million gift
On October 5, 2018, in Winnipeg, Louise Leatherdale announced a $1 million contribution to the WAG Inuit Art Centre on behalf of herself and her…
Thursday, Oct 25 '18
Talent, timing, and collaboration create a beautiful outdoor mural
As a young artist of Inuit heritage, Kailey Sheppard was surprised and moved by last spring’s WAG exhibition, INSURGENCE/RESURGENCE, and its representation of current Inuit…
Thursday, Aug 30 '18
Inuit Art Centre Construction update
The site of the WAG Inuit Art Centre was already prepared for construction when the official groundbreaking ceremony was held on May 25, 2018. The…
Thursday, Aug 30 '18
A Look Inside the Inuit Art Centre
With our supporters and partners, the WAG is establishing the Inuit Art Centre as a world-class art museum filled with transformative objects, images, and experiences…
Thursday, Aug 30 '18
Sisler Students Help Develop the Inuit Art Centre’s Digital Media Studio
A dynamic collaboration was born last year when the WAG’s Education Department attended a presentation by Sisler High School’s Interactive Digital Media program. The timing…
Friday, May 25 '18
WAG Celebrates Groundbreaking for Inuit Art Centre
Winnipeg, Manitoba, May 25, 2018: After years of planning, the Winnipeg Art Gallery was thrilled to break ground this morning for the Inuit Art Centre,…
Monday, Apr 16 '18
Rooftop Media Lab
Alongside the new WAG Inuit Art Centre, you’ll enjoy new art-making studios on the entire Penthouse floor of the existing WAG building. One of those…
Thursday, Feb 15 '18
WAG Announces All-Inuit Curatorial Team for Inuit Art Centre Inaugural Exhibits
Winnipeg, Manitoba, February 8, 2018: The Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG) is pleased to announce the all-Inuit, all-female team of guest curators to create the inaugural…
Tuesday, Dec 19 '17
Inuit Art Centre Receives $10 Million From Province of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba, December 19, 2017: Today, Honourable Cathy Cox, Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage, announced the government of Manitoba’s contribution of $10 million for…
Tuesday, May 16 '17
Indigenous Advisory Circle Announced
The Winnipeg Art Gallery is pleased to announce Dr. Julie Nagam and Dr. Heather Igloliorte as co-chairs of the newly formed Idigenous Advisory Circle. The…
Wednesday, Dec 21 '16
Inuit Heart
In a two part series, the Winnipeg Free Press explores the North and the WAG’s Inuit Art Centre. As the WAG’s ambitious Inuit Art Centre…
Wednesday, Nov 30 '16
Qingailisaq’s Coat
Qingailisaq’s Coat is a replica of the most unique garments created in the Canadian Arctic. The original coat was owned by Qingailisaq, a powerful Igloolik…
Friday, Sep 30 '16
Canadian Premiere of Our Land Showcases Rarely Seen Inuit Art
The WAG is honoured to present a powerful exhibition of treasures from the Government of Nunavut’s Fine Art Collections. Our Land: Contemporary Art from the…
Tuesday, Aug 2 '16
Government of Canada Contributes $15M to Inuit Art Centre
The Government of Canada announced $15 million in funding for construction for the Inuit Art Centre, through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund. “The Government of…
Friday, May 6 '16
City of Winnipeg Gives $5M Boost to Inuit Art Centre
Winnipeg is one step closer to becoming an international leader in Indigenous arts and culture with a City of Winnipeg investment into the Winnipeg Art…
Saturday, Mar 26 '16
Inuit Art Vault Tour
Global Winnipeg takes you into the WAG’s Inuit art vault where 7,500 carvings are stored. Home to the largest public collection of Inuit art in…
Saturday, Feb 14 '15
Elisapee Ishulutaq’s Yesterday & Today
In her vibrant mural Yesterday and Today, Elisapee Ishulutaq captures the intimate details of everyday life in the community of Pangnirtung. Her use of multiple…
QAUMAJUQ365
2023 Cape Dorset Print Sale
at ShopWAG
October 21
The 2023 Cape Dorset Annual Print Collection is available beginning Saturday, October 21 at ShopWAG at 10am!
Canada Life
Free Sundays@WAG
Sunday, Oct 8 '23
Join us on the second Sunday of every month for free admission to WAG-Qaumajuq and more family fun, thanks to Canada Life!
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
at WAG-Qaumajuq
Saturday, Sep 30 '23
Join us on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as we welcome the community to take part in tours, workshops, and talks that centre the experiences and history of Indigenous children forced to attend Indian Residential Schools.
Nuit Blanche
Street Party
Saturday, Sep 23 '23
Celebrate community through ceremony, artistry, and Indigenous cultural teachings with a FREE street party at WAG-Qaumajuq. All welcome!
Project of Heart
at WAG-Qaumajuq
September 15, 29, 30
To acknowledge the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, WAG-Qaumajuq is pleased to offer the Project of Heart workshop on select days in the Gallery.
Textile Arts
Ages 10-14
Sep 16 Dec 16 '23
Re-style garments with handmade flare using fabric paint, printmaking, embroidery, sewn embellishments, or creative re-structuring.
Oil Painting (Intermediate)
Adult
Sep 20 Nov 29 '23
Discover the art of oil painting.
Thursday Drawing Basics
Adult
Sep 21 Nov 30 '23
For students with little or no drawing experience, this introduction to the fundamental techniques and concepts of drawing will sharpen observational skills and build confidence.
Acrylic Painting
Adult
Sep 20 Nov 29 '23
Discover the art of acrylic painting.
Clayworks 2
Ages 6-8
Sep 17 Dec 17 '23
Students will work on a series of functional and sculptural projects, using a variety of techniques to develop clay hand-building skills.
Clayworks 3
Ages 9-11
Sep 17 Dec 17 '23
Students will work on a series of functional and sculptural projects, using a variety of techniques to develop clay hand-building skills.
Grown Up & Little 1
Ages 4-5
Sep 17 Dec 17 '23
Grown ups will explore their creative side, while introducing their little one to the world of visual arts during this collaborative class!
Digital Drawing 3
Ages 9-11
Sep 17 Dec 17 '23
Students will learn to translate the principles of traditional drawing and painting into the language of digital media using an iPad with Apple Pencil and the Procreate app. Transform your drawings into digital works of art! Bring your own tablet, or borrow the WAG’s in our new Digital Media Lab
Mixed Media 3
Ages 9-11
Sep 17 Dec 17 '23
Students will try out a variety of media that may include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, and printmaking. Encouraging creativity, projects can be layered, mixed, and occasionally take more than one class to complete.
Drawing & Painting 2
Ages 6-8
Sep 17 Dec 17 '23
This course gives an introduction to basic techniques and fundamental concepts that artists use to create successful drawings and paintings.
Digital Drawing 4
Ages 12-15
Sep 21 Nov 30 '23
Students will learn to translate the principles of traditional drawing and painting into the language of digital media using an iPad with Apple Pencil and the Procreate app.
Graphic Novel
Ages 10-14
Sep 20 Nov 29 '23
Love reading comics and drawing? This graphic novel class allows students to explore the art of storytelling through illustration.
Drawing & Painting 4
Ages 12-15
Sep 18 Dec 4 '23
This course gives an introduction to basic techniques and fundamental concepts that artists use to create successful drawings and paintings.
Digital Drawing 4
Ages 12-15
Sep 19 Nov 28 '23
Students will learn to translate the principles of traditional drawing and painting into the language of digital media using an iPad with Apple Pencil and the Procreate app.
Clayworks 4
Ages 12-15
Sep 16 Dec 16 '23
Students will work on a series of functional and sculptural projects, using a variety of techniques to develop clay hand-building skills.
Clayworks 3
Ages 9-11
Sep 16 Dec 16 '23
Students will work on a series of functional and sculptural projects, using a variety of techniques to develop clay hand-building skills.
Mixed Media 2
Ages 6-8
Sep 16 Dec 16 '23
Students will try out a variety of media that may include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, and printmaking.
Drawing & Painting 3
Ages 9-11
Sep 16 Dec 16 '23
This course gives an introduction to basic techniques and fundamental concepts that artists use to create successful drawings and paintings.
Digital Drawing 3
Ages 9-11
Sep 17 Dec 17 '23
Students will learn to translate the principles of traditional drawing and painting into the language of digital media using an iPad with Apple Pencil and the Procreate app. Transform your drawings into digital works of art! Bring your own tablet, or borrow the WAG’s in our new Digital Media Lab
Animation 3
Ages 9-11
Sep 16 Dec 16 '23
This course provides a beginner’s understanding of animation process and techniques.
Mixed Media 3
Ages 9-11
Sep 16 Dec 16 '23
Students will try out a variety of media that may include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, and printmaking. Encouraging creativity, projects can be layered, mixed, and occasionally take more than one class to complete.
Drawing & Painting 2
Ages 6-8
Sep 16 Dec 16 '23
This course gives an introduction to basic techniques and fundamental concepts that artists use to create successful drawings and paintings.
Thursday Pottery
Adult
Sep 21 Nov 30 '23
Discover hand building, which includes slab building, slump molded forms, and throwing on the potter’s wheel.
Block Printing
Adult
Sep 21 Nov 30 '23
Learn to create custom art prints, cards, textiles and more!
Intermediate Pottery
Adult
Sep 20 Nov 29 '23
For students that have taken pottery previously and are ready to move onto more advanced techniques.
Tuesday Pottery
Adult
Sep 19 Nov 28 '23
Discover hand building, which includes slab building, slump molded forms, and throwing on the potter’s wheel. From basic thrown or hand-built forms you’ll create mugs, bowls, and platters. You’ll also learn glazing and decorating techniques to finish your work and develop your own ideas related to functional and non-functional forms.
Handbuilt Pottery
Adult
Sep 18 Dec 4 '23
Learn how to manipulate slabs of clay into everyday functional forms or sculptural pieces.
Mixed Media
Adult
Sep 19 Nov 28 '23
Combine disparate materials, employ a variety of techniques, and use your creativity to develop images and ideas.
Life Drawing (Intermediate)
Adult
Sep 19 Nov 28 '23
Using a variety of drawing materials, you will work from a model and learn about proportion, foreshortening, and other fundamental techniques for drawing the human form.
Traditional Drawing (Intermediate)
Adult
Sep 18 '23 Mar 18 '24
Learn the fundamentals of drawing and build skills that transfer to other art practices.
Digital Drawing
Adult
Sep 18 Dec 4 '23
Transform your drawings into digital works of art! Bring your own tablet, or use the WAG’s in our new Digital Media Lab!
Tuesday Drawing Basics
Adult
Sep 19 Nov 28 '23
For students with little or no drawing experience, this introduction to the fundamental techniques and concepts of drawing will sharpen observational skills and build confidence.
Watercolour Painting
Adult
Sep 18 Dec 4 '23
Learn the basic techniques of watercolour painting, the use and care of paints and brushes, the elements and principals of design, and colour theory.
Metis Kitchen Table Party
Thursday, Sep 28 '23
As part of the opening day celebrations for the Metis Research Symposium, WAG-Qaumajuq will host a FREE Metis Kitchen Table Party!
Gasoline Rainbows Opening & KAMA Winner Announcement
Friday, Sep 22 '23
You’re invited to the opening of Gasoline Rainbows, a solo show by Tarralik Duffy, 2021 Kenojuak Ashevak Memorial Award recipient and the announcement of the 2023 winner!
Claymaker
Private Maker Parties
Available Now!
Gather your friends, pick the ClayMaker that suits you, and WAG Studio’s ceramic artist instructor will guide you through the rest.
Gallery Ball
Saturday, Oct 14 '23
Gallery Ball is our signature annual fundraiser and one of Winnipeg’s most celebrated benefit events.
Ione Thorkelsson @ ShopWAG
retrospective
Next release date is September 28
Be sure to visit ShopWAG as we celebrate the 50-year career of Ione Thorkelsson with special releases of blown glass works from her private collection…
Drop-in Tours
Select Afternoons
Uncover the stories behind the art and artists with a 45-60-minute guided tour by our experienced Gallery Guides on select afternoons.
Mixed Media 2 or 3
Ages 6-8 and 9-11
Multiple Dates/Ages Available
Students will try out a variety of media that may include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, and printmaking.
Pottery
Adult
Multiple Dates Available
Discover hand building, which includes slab building, slump molded forms, and throwing on the potter’s wheel.
Digital Drawing 3 or 4
Ages 9-11 and 12-15
Multiple Dates/Ages Available
Students will learn to translate the principles of traditional drawing and painting into the language of digital media using an iPad with Apple Pencil and the Procreate app.
Drawing Basics
Adult
Multiple Dates Available
For students with little or no drawing experience, this introduction to the fundamental techniques and concepts of drawing will sharpen observational skills and build confidence.
Clayworks 2, 3, or 4
Ages 6-8, 9-11 and 12-15
Multiple Dates/Ages Available
Students will work on a series of functional and sculptural projects, using a variety of techniques to develop clay hand-building skills.
Drawing & Painting 2, 3 or 4
Ages 6-8, 9-11 and 12-15
Multiple Dates/Ages Available
This course gives an introduction to basic techniques and fundamental concepts that artists use to create successful drawings and paintings.
Travel Tour
Patagonia & Buenos Aires
Oct 29 Nov 12 '23
Join the Associates of the WAG on a Travel Tour to Patagonia and Buenos Aires!
WAG-Qaumajuq is open regular hours, see our tips for visiting here.
