Heritage Minutes: Kenojuak Ashevak

A founding member of Cape Dorset’s famed printmaking co-op, Kenojuak Ashevak introduced Inuit art to the world (1927-2013).

Kenojuak Ashevak is perhaps the best-known Inuit artist because of her famous print _The Enchanted Owl_ (1960) which was featured on a Canada Post stamp. Ashevak grew up on the land in the traditional, semi-nomadic hunting lifestyle, living in igloos and skin tents. Diagnosed with tuberculosis, she was hospitalized at Parc Savard Hospital in Québec City from 1952 to 1955. There, she was introduced to Harold Pfeiffer, who taught patients arts and crafts as a way to pass the time and also make extra money — the hospital sold work on behalf of the patients. When she returned to Cape Dorset, Ashevak was encouraged to continue making art by James Houston, who taught the Inuit printmaking techniques and founded the West Baffin Co-operative.

*Learn more on _The Canadian Encyclopedia_* :
Kenojuak Ashevak:
Inuit Art:
Kinngait (Cape Dorset):

*FOLLOW US!*

*More educational content at* :

*Credits* :
Kenojuak Ashevak (young and voice): Miali Buschemi
DOP: John Price
Composer: Paul Aucoin
Editor: Ryan Noth
Directors: Tess Girard and Ryan Noth
Written by Tess Girard and Ryan Noth
Producers: Tess Girard and Ryan Noth
Produced by Fifth Town Films