Passion for Art Reaches a Global Audience

Ningiukulu Teevee. Dressed Up & Dressed Down, 2019.

The exhibition is comprised of 26 prints by Teevee, whose favourite subjects are arctic animals, abstract natural forms, and stories associated with Inuit cultural traditions. Based in Kinngait (Cape Dorset), NU, her interest in traditional tales passed down through generations include images of creation stories, mistreatment and its consequences, the legendary traveller, Kiviuq, animal fables, and the activities of shamans and the various spirits that inhabit the Shamanic belief system.

We spoke with artist Ningiukulu (Ning) Teevee and Dr. Ernest Cholakis, Presenting Sponsor of Stories from Kinngait, to talk about the exhibition, collecting and exhibiting art, and Ernest’s involvement with WAG-Qaumajuq and his advice for burgeoning art collectors.

“It feels unbelievable,” says Ning. “I’ve had international exhibitions before, in Washington, DC, but it is very humbling to share my art with other parts of the world who maybe don’t know our stories and are experiencing our art for the first time…I’m happy to be a part of that process.”

Ernest and Ning met in Washington, DC in 2017 during an exhibition honouring Canada’s 150th birthday at the Canadian Embassy. While Ernest already had a large collection of Ning’s work, his interest in her practice grew even further. “In the realm of contemporary Inuit art, Ning stands as both a guardian of tradition and a trailblazer in her own right…her work transcends geographical boundaries, inviting viewers to embark on a visual journey that echoes the resilience, beauty, and enduring legacy of Inuit people,” says Ernest. Modestly, Ning notes, “He likes my work and I thank him so much; I hope it serves him well.”

As founder of Cholakis Dental Group, Ernest melded his passion for art with his work, creating the “Inuit Art in Practice” collection, which is the largest corporate collection of Ning’s work in the world with pieces featured in the New York Times, Art Toronto, and Inuit Art Quarterly. The collection not only aims to raise awareness and appreciation for the art, people, and culture of Canada’s North, but also reflects the firm’s values for promoting wellbeing. Research has shown that displaying artwork in medical settings helps reduce anxiety and discomfort and speed up recovery time.

Ernest’s passion for art started at a young age, when his mother, Lillian, gave him art pieces – although not always enthused by receiving these gifts at the time, they did spark a lifelong interest in the arts and thus began his art collection. “Art collecting is an evolving art itself. My advice is to buy what you like, refine your collection over time, and let it mirror your learning journey as a collector.”

“In my journey with the arts community, Lila Goodspeed Everett’s invitation during a visit at Cholakis Dental Group ignited my involvement with the WAG,” recalls Ernest. “One year later, I became the Chair of the Board of Governors, with my nine-year tenure spanning the conception, construction, and opening of Qaumajuq.” His steadfast support and great impact at such a critical time in the Gallery’s history cannot be overstated, and to come full circle with this exciting project that speaks to the vision of Qaumajuq—sharing Inuit art and stories with the world—is something to celebrate. Thank you, Ernest, for all you do!

The launch of Ningiukulu Teevee: Stories from Kinngait coincides with the 40th anniversary of Cholakis Dental Group in 2024. Ernest and Ning are both excited about the upcoming opening at Canada House. “I’m delighted with the exhibition,” shares Ernest. “It showcases Canadian Indigenous art to new audiences and helps contribute to a rich cultural narrative.”

Organized in partnership with the High Commission of Canada in the UK and curated by Dr. Darlene Coward Wight, Ningiukulu Teevee: Stories from Kinngait is on view at Canada House in London, UK from February 7 to June 1, 2024. If you are travelling abroad, we encourage you to check it out! And watch for the second, expanded presentation of the exhibition coming to WAG-Qaumajuq in fall 2025 concurrently with Ning’s solo exhibition for the Inuit Art Foundation’s prestigious Kenojuak Ashevak Memorial Award, which the artist won in 2023.