Serving and providing for our family and community.
Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IK) is the traditional knowledge and wisdom of things Inuit always known to be true. It’s a way of understanding the world and how we should interact with each other and the land. We’re working on building a better community for artists, especially those in the city, and each week we’re looking at a different IK value. This week it’s Pijitsirniq. It’s a big word, but it basically means serving and providing for your family and community. It’s about more than just giving things; it’s about actively caring for people and making sure they have what they need.
Pijitsirniq is actually really relevant to artists. When artists create something, they’re not just doing it for themselves. They’re sharing their gifts with the community. Whether it’s through their art, teaching others, or just supporting fellow artists, they’re contributing something valuable. It’s a way of giving back and making the community stronger. Even something as simple as sharing your work online or performing at a local event can be a form of Pijitsirniq.
If we want a strong and vibrant arts community, Pijitsirniq needs to be a priority. It’s about creating a system where artists feel supported and valued. This means providing resources, creating opportunities, and celebrating their contributions. When artists are able to thrive, the whole community benefits. It’s like a circle: when we support artists, they create amazing things, and those things enrich our lives.