In the 1970s, Kinngait saw the creation of numerous animation reels, with Jamesie Fournier recalling the sand reels as particularly memorable. Fournier described the sand animation as having a dreamlike quality, blending images seamlessly while reflecting Inuit culture uniquely.
These stop motion animation sand reels were predominantly crafted by Timmun Alariaq during the 1972 Sikusilarmiut animation workshop in Kinngait, Nunavut. Supported by the National Film Board of Canada, the workshop received backing from the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs and the government of the Northwest Territories.
While select sand reels were featured in the 1973 film “Animation from Cape Dorset,” winning accolades at Animafest Zagreb and garnering international recognition, many reels remained stored and unseen by wider audiences. Last summer, the National Film Board of Canada rediscovered and digitized these forgotten reels, labeled as “Arctic Workshop Reel 1,” “Arctic Workshop Reel 2,” and “Arctic Workshop Reel 3.”
These recently unveiled reels, totaling over 50 minutes in length and created by 12 different filmmakers—nearly tripling the original reels showcased in “Animation from Cape Dorset”—have been likened to a director’s cut by Fournier. The Aulajut Nunavut International Film Festival coordinator expressed excitement at the opportunity to make this collection widely available.
These reels were recently screened at the festival in Iqaluit, marking their first public viewing. Subsequent screenings are scheduled for Kinngait and Igloolik to engage more communities. Additionally, they are accessible for viewing on the National Film Board of Canada’s website.
Peter Raymont, director of the 1975 film “Sikusilarmiut,” which documented the workshop, expressed his delight that these previously hidden animation reels are now accessible for viewing. He emphasized the modern and experimental nature of the uncovered reels, underscoring their departure from traditional perceptions of Inuit art.
Fournier echoed Raymont’s sentiments, highlighting the experimental and unconventional aspects of the reels, which challenge preconceived notions about Inuit art. He emphasized the contemporary relevance of these works, citing examples like the reel “Magic Man,” showcasing innovative artistic expressions ahead of its time.
Overall, the rediscovery and digitization of these Inuit animation reels from the 1970s offer a fresh perspective on the era’s artistic endeavors, showcasing a new wave of creativity that defies conventional boundaries.
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/newly-uncovered-inuit-animation-reels-from-1970s-screening-for-first-time-9.7159815)