In ancient times, way before the Qallunaat arrived from Europe, the Arctic peoples believed in tuungait – which refers to essences or spirits that belonged to all elements of their world.

People sought answers and help from these essences. On a daily basis they practised certain rituals to appease the spirits. By honouring the essences, people were able to remain in harmony with the physical and spiritual worlds.

Small ivory carvings often linked the human and spiritual worlds.
They came in two forms: symbolic icons used by shamans in their rituals and protective amulets for everyone else.

The actual cultural meaning behind these ancient carvings will forever remain mysterious.

CARVINGS LINKING THE HUMAN & SPIRITUAL WORLDS >>