Our People Our Climate 2024: Summer in Arctic Canada

Building resilience is about more than just immediate solutions; it's about capacity building for the future. Climate change is increasingly posing a unique challenge, as it affects everything from growing seasons to infrastructure and transportation routes. Photo: Tony Eetak.
Building resilience is about more than just immediate solutions; it's about capacity building for the future. Climate change is increasingly posing a unique challenge, as it affects everything from growing seasons to infrastructure and transportation routes. Photo: Tony Eetak.

Each summer in Northern Canada, the beautiful landscape comes alive through the lens of local photographers like Tony Eetak from the Niriaqtiginnga Youth, Arts and Media team. The simple slices of life captured in these photos speaks volumes about the connection between people and their environment. Building on concepts introduced with the original “Our People Our Climate” program, these images not only serve as a reminder of past experiences but also as a testament to the enduring relationship with the land.

“Being part of the Art Borups Corners Youth, Arts and Media team since 2020 has been an amazing journey,” said youth artist Tony Eetak. “Capturing the essence of summer through my photography has allowed me to share the beauty and resilience of our community. It’s incredible to share how our daily lives are so closely tied to the land, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to document and share these stories.”

A simple, and ongoing activity for the Art Borups Corners Youth, Arts and Media Team program includes documenting and sharing the ways in which communities interact with their natural surroundings, and highlighting the unique ways they adapt to and celebrate the rhythms of northern and urban life and living.

The sun begins its descent, casting a golden hue over the serene waters and the rugged terrain. The sky is painted in shades of orange and pink, highlighting the tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere of the coming night across the western shores. Photo: Tony Eetak
The sun begins its descent, casting a golden hue over the serene waters and the rugged terrain. The sky is painted in shades of orange and pink, highlighting the tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere of the coming night across the western shores. Photo: Tony Eetak
Experience the captivating beauty of Hudson Bay's western shores through stunning photographic narratives of Arviat, Nunavut by Tony Eetak.
Experience the captivating beauty of Hudson Bay’s western shores through stunning photographic narratives of Arviat, Nunavut by Tony Eetak.
Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, Niriqatiginnga, Winnipeg. Photo by Tony Eetak
The long, dusty road stretches far and wide, showcasing the pristine beauty of Arviat, Nunavut. Photo: Tony Eetak
The sun begins its descent, casting a golden hue over the serene waters and the rugged terrain. The sky is painted in shades of orange and pink, highlighting the tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere of the coming night across the western shores. Photo: Tony Eetak

Tony Eetak’s shots vividly portray the essence of summer in Northern Canada, from the splashes of color in blooming wildflowers to the tranquil reflections on pristine waters. Each photograph encapsulates a narrative of resilience, tradition, and harmony with nature. The annual ritual of capturing these moments is a gentle reminder of the simple joys and profound beauty that define life in the North, and how these experiences are intertwined with the ongoing dialogue about climate and cultural preservation.

“These kinds of arts-based and environmental initiatives provide future climate entrepreneurs and creators with a platform to express their creativity, connect with their culture, and develop essential life skills,” said Manitoba-based artist Jamie Bell, one of the program mentors. “Through activities like Tony’s photography, young participants learn to navigate and adapt to challenges, fostering a sense of confidence and belonging that will serve them throughout their lives.” 

Picture of Tony Eetak

Tony Eetak

Tony Eetak is an emerging artist, musician and culture connector from Arviat, Nunavut, now exploring the arts in Winnipeg, Manitoba. A founding member of the Art Borups Corners, Tony has a demonstrated passion for photography, music, composition, and visual arts. With over five years of experience as a dedicated volunteer, collaborator and co-funder of several arts projects, Tony has been involved in various participatory arts events through organizations like the Arviat Film Society, Global Dignity Canada, Inclusion in Northern Research, and Our People, Our Climate. His contributions earned him recognition as a National Role Model by Global Dignity Canada in 2023. His work has been supported by the Canada Council for the Arts, Manitoba Arts Council and the OpenAI Researcher Access Program.

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