James Archibald Houston was born on June 12th, 1921

James Archibald Houston: The Visionary Who Brought Inuit Art to the Forefront

A Pioneering Spirit in the Canadian Arctic

James Archibald Houston is renowned for his pivotal role in recognizing and promoting Inuit art, as well as introducing printmaking to the Inuit. This Canadian artist, designer, children's author, and filmmaker spent over 12 years in the Eastern Arctic, immersed in the culture and traditions of the Inuit people.

A Childhood Steeped in Art

Born on June 12, 1921, in St. Catharines, Ontario, Houston's artistic journey began at a young age. He studied art with Arthur Lismer and later attended the Ontario College of Art (1938-1940) and the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris (1947-1948).

War, Travel, and Creative Exploration

During World War II, Houston served with the Toronto Scottish Regiment, earning the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal. Following the war, he traveled to Japan (1958-1959) to study printmaking, a medium that would become integral to his work with the Inuit. It was during this period that he earned the Inuit name "Saumik," meaning "the left-handed one."

Unveiling Inuit Art to the World

In 1948, Houston ventured to the Eastern Arctic, where he discovered the remarkable artistry of the Inuit. He traded his own drawings for a small carving by an Inuit hunter named Nayoumealuk, and this chance encounter sparked a lifelong passion to promote Inuit art. Houston's efforts led to the first exhibition of Inuit carvings at the Canadian Handicrafts Guild in Montreal, and soon, he was sent back north to facilitate bulk purchases of Inuit artwork.

A Life of Creative Expression

Houston's artistic output was diverse and prolific. He worked as a designer, filmmaker, and children's author, often incorporating Inuit themes and motifs into his work. As associate director of design with Steuben Glass in New York, he continued to draw inspiration from his Arctic experiences.

Legacy and Impact

James Archibald Houston's contributions to the recognition and celebration of Inuit art are immeasurable. Through his tireless efforts, he brought the beauty and richness of Inuit culture to a global audience, inspiring a new generation of artists and art enthusiasts. His legacy continues to inspire and educate, reminding us of the importance of cultural exchange and appreciation.

• Houston's work with the Inuit led to the establishment of the West Baffin Eskimo Co-operative, which empowered Inuit artists to take control of their own creative and economic destinies.
• His film, Tiktu (1974), about an Inuit boy's journey, won the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film.
• Houston's children's books, such as The White Archer (1967), introduced Inuit legends and stories to young readers worldwide.

A Commemoration

James Archibald Houston passed away on April 17, 2005, but his remarkable legacy endures. As we celebrate his life and work, we are reminded of the transformative power of art and cultural exchange to bridge communities and foster understanding.