In the freezing temperatures of the Northern Arctic, Inuit hunters invented the nimble qajaq, or kayak, to enhance their hunting skills in sealing, whaling and coastline expeditions on the icy waters. Known as the ‘man’s boat’ or the ‘hunter’s boat’ in various Inuktitut dialects, the kayak was hand-crafted from locally available materials.
While materials vary depending on their region, in Nain, Newfoundland, men would begin the process by shaping spruce wood into frames. From there, the women would laboriously stretch damp seal skins over the wood, allowing the skin to dry taut. With precision, they would stitch the skins in place using caribou sinew, a remarkably sturdy thread fashioned from caribou muscle. [1] Each kayak would be tailor made for the size and weight of an individual hunter, as even the slightest error while on the water could prove to be fatal. [2]
Distinguishing itself from the umiak, another staple of Inuit hunting culture, the kayak boasted a sheltered deck, enhancing its stealth and agility on the waves. Yet, despite its innovations, the kayak didn’t supplant the umiak; rather, both vessels served vital roles in arctic travel and hunting. [3]
Additionally, the kayak served as a conduit for the Inuit to engage with the arctic environment and its ecology. Kayaking facilitated exploration of landscapes, access to natural resources, encounters with wildlife, and social interactions with neighboring Inuit communities. An individual’s mastery of the kayak measured one’s personal growth and connection to the community. [3]
Kayak in Contemporary Life
In modern times, traditional kayaks have seen a decline in usage compared to motorboats. However, this shift does not diminish the kayak’s significance within Inuit culture. Depicted by both traditional and contemporary Inuit artists, the kayak symbol features prominently in Inuit artwork across various media. Through drawing, print, textile, and sculpture, the kayak is depicted in a plethora of ways. From realistic hunting scenes, to traditional stories, to abstract fantasies, artistic interpretations of the kayak are endless. Today, the kayak continues to hold significance in Inuit culture, serving not just as a practical tool but also as a symbol of cultural identity, resilience, and honouring the traditional ways of life.
To view available artworks depicting the kayak, click here.
Sources