November 25, 2019
Five highly-skilled artists representing each of the NWT’s regions had the opportunity to promote and sell their art work at the Calgary Art Market earlier this month.
The initiative, designed to connect NWT artists with new markets was funded by the Department of Industry Tourism and Investment under the NWT Arts Program which provides marketing and promotion support for resident artists.
“The Calgary Art Market is a highly established show. It’s been around for over 30 years and this was the first year that NWT artists were part of it – the excitement from the organizers and the attendees was amazing,” says Johanna Tiemessen, ITI’s Manager of Arts and Fine Crafts.
Over 40 artists responded to an open call by the Department for the opportunity to present their products to the event’s 20,000 plus attendees - and to see them promoted in a marketplace of over 200 Canadian artists with handmade artwork. The five artists chosen to attend were identified based on the show’s criteria for artwork and to offer a balanced representation of artists and artwork from the NWT.
NWT Artists at the 2019 Art Market included:
- Catherine Cockney, Inuvik
- April Glaicar, Hay River
- Cathy Kotchea, Fort Liard
- Bobby Manuel, Colville Lake
- Cheryl Thomas, Yellowknife
The response was overwhelming. The organizers showcased the NWT Artists and their artwork in their weekly newsletter leading up to the event, which resulted in buyers seeking them out specifically. People were lined up to talk to them and learn more about their art and their communities. Even other artists in the show stopped by to express their interest and appreciation.
The excitement was contagious. Artwork flew off the shelves and nearly all of the artists’ inventory was sold over the duration of the four-day market.
(Photo: a photo of Catherine Cockney’s sealskin children’s moccasins used in the event signage. This image was one of eight rotating images chosen for the four-day show)
Upping the Ante
To enhance the NWT presence in Calgary, Tiemessen also arranged for local retail owners – including representatives from the Glenbow Museum - to come and meet each of the five artists. From these meetings, it was evident there is an interest in carrying the work of not only the artists present at the market, but more work from NWT artists overall.
“Many local artists are ready to participate in events like these – they’re great for exposure and for building an extended customer base, but they’re costly,” Tiemessen says. “Through the NWT Arts Program, we’re working with artists to help them access these new markets, develop relationships with vendors and build this sustainable local industry”
NWT Arts will continue to work with southern contacts to develop these opportunities - reaching out to registered artists for participation as opportunities are identified and defined.