Early Baker Lake Drawings (May 15 - June 12, 1999)

Jack Butler and Sheila Butler arrived in Baker Lake in 1969. Commissioned to assess the potential for arts and crafts production, particularly printmaking, the Butlers intended to stay in Baker Lake for only a few months. Yet, within a year of their arrival, the successful collaborative process they encouraged resulted in the release of the first of many wonderful Baker Lake Print Collections. Over three years of residence, and subsequent involvement as advisers, the Butlers developed a strong bond with the artists and printers. They wove into the fabric of the group as advisers, fellow artists, colleagues and friends.

The special exhibition featuring the Butler Collection presented sixty images providing a rare insight into the early explorations of the drawing medium. These drawings, solicited by the Butlers as part of the development of the print program, included images by Jessie Oonark, Luke Anguhadluq, Janet Kigusiuq, Harold Qarliksaq, Victoria Mamnguqsualuk, Nancy Pukingrnak, Martha Ittuluka'naaq, Hannah Kigusiuq and Simon Tookoome. The drawings confirm that even the older artists, adjusting to the recent loss of the tradition way of life, embraced with assurance and enthusiasm the new two-dimensional graphic medium.

An illustrated catalogue of the exhibition, The Butler Collection: Early Baker Lake Drawings is available.