As we entered phase 2 of the pandemic control, Inuvik’s community activities are gradually emerging safely. Today we went to a Covid-safe seal skin sewing workshop instructed by a craft master, Alice Kimiksama. Alice is from Ulukhaktok (high arctic) and has been living in Inuvik for a decade. She is currently an Inuvialuitun language teacher.
She said she has been using the same ulu (traditional knife) to cut furs since she first learned sewing. Alice was an encouraging and gentle instructor that made me enjoy sewing even it was my nightmare in middle school.
Alice told us the seals we get here in Inuvik are harp seals. Their skin is thinner and tougher. The seals in high arctic are ringed seals (netsik), which should be easier to work with.
It took me an hour to finish one mini mitten and I am quite sure wind could sneak in the glove… but it’s super cute!
It sounds like next week is cloud berry picking time. Alice told us we can harvest them near tuk highway. Hopefully we can experience that!
From North Point To North Pole 