Join us on a captivating journey as we delve into the life and work of Dr. Heather Igloliorte, an extraordinary Inuk and Nunatsiavut art historian and curator. From a life-altering accident to becoming a leading voice in the decolonization of art institutions, Dr. Igloliorte's story is one of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of Indigenous art. Get ready to be inspired and enlightened as we explore her remarkable contributions to the art world.
A Twist of Fate: From Artist to Art Historian
Discover how a life-altering accident redirected Dr. Heather Igloliorte's artistic path and led her to become a renowned Inuk and Nunatsiavut art historian and curator.
Life can take unexpected turns, and for Dr. Heather Igloliorte, a hurricane brought about a pivotal moment in her artistic journey. After a car accident left her injured and uncertain about her ability to paint, she shifted her focus to art history during her recovery.
Exploring the history of Inuit art, Dr. Igloliorte realized the lack of representation and voices of Inuit artists in the field. Motivated to contribute and bring Indigenous perspectives to the forefront, she embarked on a path to become a leading Inuk and Nunatsiavut art historian.
Pioneering Indigenous Art Practices
Uncover Dr. Igloliorte's groundbreaking work in decolonizing art institutions and elevating Indigenous arts and knowledge on a global scale.
Dr. Heather Igloliorte has dedicated her career to challenging colonialist understandings and centering Indigenous knowledge and creativity. Through her curatorial projects and research, she has played a pivotal role in reshaping exhibition practices to prioritize circumpolar Indigenous arts.
Her notable accomplishments include co-curating a groundbreaking survey of contemporary Inuit art and directing the Inuit Futures in Arts Leadership project. Dr. Igloliorte's work aims to decolonize institutions and create inclusive spaces for Indigenous artists to thrive.
Empowering Communities Through Art
Learn how Dr. Igloliorte's passion for curatorial practice has empowered rural and northern communities to share their stories and find success on their own terms.
Dr. Igloliorte's first major exhibition, "We Were So Far Away: The Inuit Experience of Residential Schools," ignited her interest in curatorial practice as a means of amplifying marginalized voices. She recognized the lack of access to conventional art galleries and museums in northern communities and sought to bridge this gap.
By touring exhibitions throughout the North, Dr. Igloliorte ensured that Residential School Survivors and their families could see their stories shared. She emphasizes the resourcefulness of northerners and the importance of creating opportunities for diverse arts experiences and leadership.
Expanding Artistic Reach Through Technology
Explore Dr. Igloliorte's efforts to bridge the digital divide and empower Indigenous artists with cutting-edge technologies.
Dr. Igloliorte recognizes the lack of access to advanced technologies for Indigenous artists. To address this, she envisions the creation of an Indigenous research-creation focused media arts lab, providing tools like augmented reality and extended reality.
By fostering digital literacy and media arts skill sets, Indigenous artists can explore new creative possibilities and bring their practices into the digital realm. Dr. Igloliorte believes in breaking down barriers and ensuring equal opportunities for Indigenous artists to thrive in the digital age.
A New Era of Indigenous Art at UVic
Discover the exciting collaboration between Dr. Heather Igloliorte and the University of Victoria's Faculty of Fine Arts in advancing reconciliation through artistic practice.
The University of Victoria's Faculty of Fine Arts provides an ideal environment for Dr. Igloliorte's transformative work. With a strong presence of Indigenous faculty members and a commitment to decolonization, UVic offers a supportive community for Indigenous artists.
Dr. Igloliorte is thrilled to join the Department of Visual Arts, collaborating with renowned artists and scholars. Together, they aim to amplify Indigenous voices, drive change through artistic practice, and create a more inclusive and welcoming art institution.
