UK Exhibitions Showcase Rising Recognition of Inuit and Sámi Art
The push for representation of art from the far north reached a milestone in 2022 with the inaugural Sámi pavilion at the Venice Biennale. The exhibition featured three Sámi artists defending Sámi perspectives, including Shuvinai Ashoona, who received a special mention for her fantastical interpretations of modern Arctic life. In the UK, exhibitions spotlight leading contemporary artists such as Outi Pieski, who evokes connections between human population, wildlife, and land while preserving Sámi culture.
Pieski’s work embodies the Sámi philosophy of “soabadit” and “duodji,” showcasing vibrantly crafted textile installations that symbolize healing and act as nomadic monuments. She explores the suppression of Sámi culture and women’s rights, particularly focusing on the ládjogahpir, a horn-shaped hat worn by Sámi women.
Pieski’s paintings address the impact of natural resource extraction on Sámi livelihoods, highlighting the importance of preserving sacred mountains. She sees her work as part of the third wave of the Sámi movement, intertwining environmental issues, identity politics, feminism, and decolonialism.
Inuit artists like Shuvinai Ashoona and Pia Arke are also gaining recognition for their unique interpretations of life in the Arctic. Ashoona’s playful drawings capture everyday life for Inuits in the Canadian Arctic, while Arke’s work focuses on colonial imagery and the intersection of personal and political narratives.
The exhibitions at Tate St Ives, The Perimeter, and John Hansard Gallery reflect a growing visibility of Sámi and Inuit creativity globally. With Europe’s first Arctic capital of culture in Bodø and representation at the Venice Biennale, there’s a shift towards acknowledging and celebrating Indigenous art and culture.
Collaboration and unity among Indigenous peoples, societies, and marginalized groups are key to empowering diverse communities. The current exhibitions offer a timely exploration of Indigenous rights, climate change impacts, and cultural heritage preservation, fostering dialogue and understanding across cultures.
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Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.