Indigenous Knowledge

The film excerpts under this theme consider the role of women, ways of thinking about hunting and fishing, forestry management, the technique of building an igloo, the importance of spirituality, and the preservation and transmission of ancestral values.

Excerpts

Bella Bella

Circle of the Sun

Eskimo Arts and Crafts

Our Nationhood

Tales of Sand and Snow

Eskimo Arts and Crafts

1943, Director: Boulton, Laura

excerpt 1 2 min 20 s

Description
Questions

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Description In 1943, a Baffin Island Inuit woman is shown making mukluk boots using skins, an ulu knife, a bone needle, sinew thread and a thimble of thick sealskin. She uses her teeth to make the leather more pliable.

Questions 1. What traditional materials are used to make the waterproof mukluks?

2. In the film it is stated, “A man is the hunter his wife makes him.” What do you think this means? What does this say about the role women play in the hunt?

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About This Film

Synopsis

To the Baffin Island Inuit arts and crafts are part of life. Their handbuilt kayaks are marvels of construction and speed. Skins for new garments are dried and softened, then decorated with Indian inspired patterns. Ivory carving, bone shuttles, and hand-fashioned spears, are products of traditional skill, while legendary stories, drumming, singing, and dancing, are enjoyed by old and young alike.

Director: Laura Boulton
Producer: Laura Boulton
Photography: Grant McLean
Consultant: Robert Flaherty