New Exhibition Honours :”Saumik” – “ the left-handed one”
Saumik: James Houston’s Legacy opens February 10, 2007
KLEINBURG, 8 February 2007 ,,, “Saumik” - “the left-handed one” - is the name that was given to James Houston by the Inuit in Kinngait (Cape Dorset), Nunavut. Saumik: James Houston’s Legacy, an exhibition opening on February 10th for an indefinite run at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, focuses on the late James Houston and the early days of art making in Kinngait.
James Houston, was the leading proponent in establishing printmaking in Kinngait some 50 years ago. Houston met with friend and fellow artist Osuitok Ipeelee and the two had a now- legendary conversation during which Houston explained the reproduction of a single graphic. After he demonstrated the printing technique with ink, a newly carved tusk, and tissue, Ipeelee agreed that there were indeed many interesting possibilities to be found in this new medium. Houston and Ipeelee gained the support of two important elders, Pootoogook and Kiakshuk, and by 1957 a number of artists were experimenting in printmaking.
A small series of prints by a dozen artists was released in 1958. The group became larger as the most talented and enthusiastic printmakers joined and the first catalogued collection was released in 1959. Noted Kinngait artists Parr, Niviaksiak, Pudlo Pudlat, Pitseolak Ashoona, Napatchie Pootoogook, Lucy Qinnuayuak, Mangitak Kellypalik, the renowned Kenojuak Ashevak, and many others all made important contributions.
Saumik: James Houston’s Legacy offers a unique opportunity for viewers to experience first hand this pivotal moment in Canadian art history through selected graphics - both drawings and prints - along with a survey of works, early to very recent, by specific key artists like Kenojuak Ashevak. In addition to selected works from the McMichael Canadian Art Collection’s extensive holdings of Inuit art, the McMichael is pleased to include in the exhibition Kenojuak Ashevak’s exciting and astonishing recent drawing Mother of the Children, 2005 on loan for its first-ever gallery showing.
About the gallery
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is an agency of the Government of Ontario and acknowledges the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Recreation.
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For further information:
Media Contact
Stephen Weir, Publicist
(905) 893-1121 ext. 2529 Gallery
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