A journey through Nunavik

MONTREAL — Northerners visiting Montreal should take time to follow the footsteps of Atungaq, Nunavik’s legendary traveller.

Tumivut, or “the traces of our footsteps,” is a new exhibit based on Atungaq’s wanderings. Mounted by Avataq, Nunavik’s cultural institute, and housed in an elegant building in Old Montreal, the exhibit guides visitors through Nunavik’s art and culture.

According to the story, Atungaq set off with his wife and adopted daughter to wander around the world. As they travelled they left footsteps deep in the rock. It is said that those footsteps can still be seen today.

The exhibit includes panoramic photos, Inuit arts and crafts, interactive games and access to Nunavik-related Internet sites.

There’s a seven-metre-long skin kayak, a traditional tent, an inuksuk, caribou clothing, carvings, prints, and a rare illustration of the legend of Atungaq.

Artists from several generations are represented, from Aqiattusuk, who was born in 1898 and died in 1954, to Jobie Iqaluk, who was born in 1970.

Several of the works are on loan from the Fédération des coopératives du Nouveau-Québec, while others belong to the Nunavik Inuit Art collection.

Also part of the exhibit is Boutik Nunavik, which sells carvings, Inuit music, jewelry, herbal teas, T-shirts and books.

The exhibit is curated by Louis Gagnon and staffed by Nunavimmiut living in Montreal.

Located at 360 St-Jacques Street, Tumivut is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibit runs through Oct. 11.

Admission is free to beneficiaries of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement. Otherwise admission is $4 for adults, $2 for seniors and free for children younger than 12. Admission is also free on Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m.