Indigenous Arctic voices on display in Redcar

A North East museum is preparing to host an immersive and educational exhibition showcasing the unique artistry and resilience of Arctic Indigenous communities.

Kirkleatham Museum, in Redcar, will open Arctic Expressions on June 7, a British Museum partnership exhibition exploring life in the Arctic regions of Alaska and Canada. 

Running until September 28, it will spotlight how Indigenous Peoples adapt to social, political and environmental change – and how artistic expression helps them navigate and narrate their experiences.

Councillor Carrie Richardson, cabinet member for climate and culture at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, said: “It is wonderful that our team at Kirkleatham Museum and our schools have this opportunity to work with experts at one of the most prestigious museums in the world. 

“The exhibition will offer a fascinating insight into the diverse lives and cultures of Arctic Indigenous Peoples and I’m sure it will attract visitors from across the region. 

“It’s very exciting to have an exhibition like this at Kirkleatham Museum and I’m sure the school children lucky enough to take part in the educational programme will remember it for many years to come.”

Fifteen works from the British Museum’s collection will be displayed, including historic artefacts and contemporary art from the Kinngait Cooperative and Baker Lake communities. 

Highlights include a 1992 lithograph by acclaimed Inuit artist Kenojuak Ashevak, as well as a striking new carved wooden mask by Alaskan artist Erin Ggaadimits Ivalu Gingrich.

Rose Taylor, curator, Americas at the British Museum, added: “It has been fantastic to partner with Kirkleatham Museum to present an exhibition that will introduce audiences to the cultural, geographic and artistic history of Indigenous Peoples in Alaska and Canada. 

“Visitors will have the opportunity to see work from some of the most acclaimed Inuit artists and we are excited to present new artwork from Alaska Native artist Erin Ggaadimits Ivalu Gingrich. 

“These works tell important stories about life in this changing region, conveying the enduring connection between people, their environments and the animals they share them with.”

The exhibition will also be supported by educational outreach. 

Pupils at Green Gates Primary, in Redcar, and Errington Primary, in Marske, will explore Arctic life through virtual lessons, creative workshops and hands-on access to an exhibition object, producing their own artwork in response.

Sarah Saunders, head of learning and national partnerships at the British Museum, said: “This poignant and inspiring exhibition has been developed as part of the British Museum in your classroom programme, which gives children and teachers agency to develop inspiring learning experiences and outcomes. 

“We hope that by engaging directly with these artworks and objects in their school, virtually and through the exhibition, the children and wider audiences will feel more connected to the culture, environment and artistry of Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →