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The Ilisarniq Series: Ulu Making with Ken Mackay

Calling all Inuit artists! Join us for a workshop on ulu making with Ken Mackay, owner of the Urban Inuk.

Learn about Ken's career path, inspirations, materials and more through a discussion with Heather Campbell, Strategic Initiatives Director at the IAF. Then follow Ken into his workshop to watch as he demonstrates how to assemble the ulu handle and blade! You can ask questions throughout the process. Come learn with us!

Kenneth Mackay is an Inuk wood and metal worker who grew up in Yellowknife, NT. He salvages throw-away materials to create beautiful new things. Through his company, Urban Inuk, Kenneth resourcefully finds ways to live out traditional teachings in a modern world. The eco-friendly art and tools he creates come from his desire to live by Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit values. His work was recently featured in the Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival 2022.

Please note that this session is available only to Inuit. Thank you for understanding.


The Ilisarniq Series is a new series of workshops for all Inuit artists, curators, writers, and art administrators to learn new skills and expand their practices organized by the Inuit Art Foundation and Inuit Futures in Arts Leadership. Join us for practical tips on how to apply for funding, price your work, make new kinds of work and more!