ᓄᐊᒥ ᐃᕐᕈᒥᐊᖅ | Normee Ekoomiak

Opening Reception: Thursday, April 17, 2025

Normee Ekoomiak (1948​–​2009) was an Inuk storyteller from Nunavik. Through his paintings, books and vibrant akinnamiutait (wall​-​hangings), he documented Inuit life, stories and traditions with joy and reverence. 

​​Ekoomiak’s​ art bears witness to his knowledge and memories of the Inuit way of living​ that​ he cherished in Fort George, even when he later lived in Ottawa. His wall-hangings in particular embody the cultural significance of textile work in Inuit communities​, ​where sewing is central to creative work and to the living culture of Inuit today. 

Despite ​​hardships, Ekoomiak always returned to art, determined to celebrate and share Inuit culture with both Inuit and non-Inuit audiences. His work stands as a powerful testament to resilience, beauty and storytelling. 

Curators: Rebecca Basciano and Taqralik Partridge
Curatorial Coordination: Erin Bruce
Exhibition Design: elsonstudio
Graphic Design: Leah Ross and Mathieu Kirchmayer
Technical Team: Stephanie Germano, Dan Austin, Rob Keefe, Mark Garland, Neil Hossack, Robert Chester
Editors: ​​Matt Harrison, Véronique Couillard
French Translation: Louise Saint-André
Inuktitut Translation: Apatakaa

Institutional Lenders and Partners: 
Art Gallery of Guelph
Avataq Cultural Institute
Canadian Museum of History
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
McMichael Canadian Art Collection
Ottawa Inner City Health ​​Centre Inc.
The Ottawa Mission
Winnipeg Art Gallery

Sponsors: 

 

This exhibition was also realized with the support of the City of Ottawa, the Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.