Inuit and Korean Art Collaboration Shines at Gwangju Biennale

Inuit and Korean artists unite in a groundbreaking exhibition at the Gwangju Biennale exploring the concept of ‘home’ through diverse cultural lenses, marking a milestone in Canada-Korea artistic relations.

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A groundbreaking collaboration between Inuit and Korean artists is currently on display at the 15th Gwangju Biennale, marking a significant milestone in international cultural exchange. The exhibition, housed in the Canadian Pavilion, showcases works from six Inuit artists from Kinngait (formerly Cape Dorset) and three Korean artists.

A Collaborative Exhibition 

Six Inuit artists from Kinngait (Cape Dorset) – Saimaiyu Akesuk, Shuvinai Ashoona, Qavavau Manumie, Pitseolak Qimirpik, Ooloosie Saila, and Ningiukulu Teevee – join Korean artists Sae-woong Ju, Joheum Lee, and Seol-a Kim in this unique collaboration. The exhibition showcases six previously exhibited drawings and a new lithography created specifically for this event, exploring the artists’ respective landscapes, cultures, and histories.

Exhibition Context & Thematic Focus

Hosted at the Canadian Pavilion, this collaboration is part of the 2024-2025 Year of Cultural Exchanges between Canada and Korea. It marks the West Baffin Cooperative artists’ second participation in the Gwangju Biennale. The exhibition’s theme, ‘home’, emerged from cultural exchanges including Korean delegations’ visits to Toronto, Ottawa, Iqaluit, and Kinngait in early 2024. Discussions ranged from landscape and climate to linguistics and ancient Asia-Arctic migration patterns.

Cultural Exchange and Shared Experiences

The exhibition’s central theme, ‘home’, emerged from rich cultural reciprocity between Inuit and Korean artists. Their collaboration fostered intimate exchanges that went beyond artistic practices. A notable aspect was the sharing of cultural cuisines: Inuit artists introduced maktaaq and palauga, while their Korean counterparts offered kimchi and soju. These culinary exchanges provided a tangible way to experience each other’s heritage. The mutual sharing of food, language, and customs deepened understanding between the artists, directly influencing their collaborative artworks and enriching the exhibition’s exploration of ‘home.’

Shared Experiences and Political Reflections

During these early exchanges also revealed parallels between Inuit and Korean political experiences, particularly in their relationships with their governments. Discussions touched on the Gwangju Uprising and the forced relocation of Inuit communities, highlighting shared themes of resilience and cultural pride in the face of historical challenges. These dialogues laid the foundation for the artistic collaboration to follow.

Press conference at the 2024 Gwangju Biennale. (Courtesy West Baffin Cooperative)

Gwangju Biennale Context

Established in 1995, the Gwangju Biennale is a significant international contemporary art exhibition addressing cultural identity, human rights, and social justice. The 15th edition, celebrating its 30th anniversary, features 72 artists from 30 countries. This Inuit-Korean collaboration underscores the growing recognition of Indigenous art globally and the power of cultural diplomacy.

Impact and Future Prospects

This exhibition aims to elevate Inuit art’s profile internationally and strengthen its presence in contemporary art scenes. Organizers hope it will pave the way for future cross-cultural artistic exchanges and foster a deeper global understanding of diverse cultural perspectives.