Isuma Collective Presents New Works at 2019 Venice Biennale Canadian Pavilion

The artist collective Isuma, led by Zacharias Kunuk and Norman Cohn, is exhibiting three new works in the Canadian Pavilion at the 2019 Venice Biennale, which runs from May 11 to November 24. Producer Jonathan Frantz, who curated the show, responded to an ArtReview questionnaire on behalf of the group. One installation, 'One Day in the Life of Noah Piugattuk,' is a feature-length 4K digital video in Inuktitut and English, filmed near Kapuivik in the Canadian high Arctic to recreate a 1961 encounter during forced Inuit relocations. Another project, 'Silakut Live From the Floe Edge,' involves live webcasts from north Baffin Island focusing on mining expansion and relocation impacts. The collective's online component, Isuma Online, includes releasing films on iTunes in 30 countries and an archive of over 7,000 indigenous videos in 75 languages, alongside a free exhibition catalogue with essays and photos. Isuma, Canada's first Inuit production company, emphasizes local northern concerns while addressing global indigenous issues like cultural preservation and land sovereignty. Their participation marks their debut at the Venice Biennale, offering exposure to international audiences and sharing Inuit culture and heritage. The pavilion is located in the Giardini, and the collective expressed excitement about viewing other national pavilions and exploring Venice.