With the steady curve of the ulu, generations of Inuit women have transformed the gifts of the land and sea into warmth, sustenance, and art. Here, the careful work of preparing sealskin connects us to ancient traditions and a profound respect for the animal. Photo: Eva Suluk
From Skin to Stitch Honouring the Seal and the Ulu in Inuit Culture
Ah, the ulu. Just holding it in my hand connects me to generations of Inuit who have come before. This isn’t just a knife; it’s a piece of our history, our ingenuity, and our deep respect for the animals that sustain us.
See its curved blade? Perfectly shaped for so many tasks, from preparing hides like this sealskin for sewing warm clothing to carefully butchering the animals we hunt. For centuries, the ulu has been an indispensable tool for Inuit women, a symbol of our resourcefulness and skill. Every woman owned and cherished her ulu, and it was often passed down through families, carrying stories and memories with it.
The sealskin you see here will become something beautiful and practical – perhaps warm mitts, sturdy boots, or part of a traditional garment. Nothing is wasted. The meat, of course, nourishes our families. The blubber provides essential fats and can be rendered for oil. Even the bones can be used for tools or artwork. This deep respect for the animal, this understanding that every part has a purpose, is a fundamental part of our Inuit way of life. It’s a practice that has allowed us to thrive in this challenging Arctic environment for countless generations. The ulu, in its simple yet elegant design, embodies this connection to the land, the animals, and our rich cultural heritage.
