Jerry Cans
Jerry Cans are the most active musical band based in Iqaluit traveling all over the world. A fusion of folk, rock, reggae, throat singing, fiddle and accordion they perform original songs and popular cover songs in Inuktitut. Led by couple Nancy Mike and Andrew Morrison who are raising 2 daughters within this heavily musical family. We talk to Nancy about her unique band, how she began her career and her musical inspirations.
Jerry Ell
Host Henry Naulaq speaks with guest Jerry Ell. Jerry Ell is a carver and his work is well known around the world. On this show he shows us how he carves out his artwork. He sells his carvings on social media and in different locations within his community.
Unaaq (Harpoon)
The Unaaq (Harpoon) has many uses for the Inuit, two main uses are for harpooning a catch such as seals at their breathing holes, walruses, whales and other sea and land animals such as caribou. This ancient weapon was also used to make sure the ice is safe, by harpooning the ice you will step on. For many years Inuit made this tool from animal bones and used dried walrus intestines cut up to make rope. Today, Inuit make their harpoons from what is readily available in modern technology such as steep rods for the fore shaft and their heads, the arrow from brass, steel or aluminum. A hunter from Iqaluit, Jerry Ell will take us through the many steps to make a modern harpoon and he will also show us the way he makes an arrow.
Qamutiq
For thousands of years Inuit has used the Qamutiq in the north as a means of transportation. Back them it could have been made from frozen fish and freezing ice under to make it run smooth and fast. Other things such as bone and skins, driftwood and whatever would have been used as well. In this episode we will watch a more modern way a sled would be made. These days’ ropes are used rather than animal products. Lumber is used as well as plastic sheets for the bottom. We will watch Jerry Ell make a Qamutiq for a child to slide and play with.