The Arctic is more than just a frozen land of ice and snow. It is home to diverse cultures, rich histories, and resilient communities that have adapted to one of the most challenging environments on Earth. The exhibition at the British Museum, titled Arctic: Culture and Climate, explores the world’s northernmost region through the perspectives of its Indigenous peoples. The exhibition showcases more than 300 objects, from ancient tools and clothing to contemporary art and activism, that reveal the creativity and resourcefulness of Arctic peoples throughout history.
The exhibition is developed in collaboration with Arctic communities, who have contributed their stories, knowledge, and expertise. The exhibition celebrates the ingenuity and resilience of Arctic peoples, who have harnessed the weather and climate to thrive in their homeland for thousands of years. It also tells the powerful story of how climate change is affecting the Arctic and its peoples, who are facing unprecedented challenges and threats to their way of life.
The exhibition is divided into four sections: Living with Animals, Living from the Land, Living with the Seasons, and Living with Change. Each section explores a different aspect of Arctic life and culture, highlighting the diversity and complexity of the region. The exhibition features objects from across the Arctic, including Canada, Greenland, Russia, Alaska, and Scandinavia, as well as from different time periods, ranging from 28,000-year-old mammoth ivory sculptures to modern refitted snowmobiles.
Some of the highlights of the exhibition include:
A 600-year-old wooden hunting hat from Alaska, decorated with caribou teeth and feathers, that was used to lure waterfowl by imitating their calls.
A pair of snow goggles from Canada, made from caribou antler and sinew, that protected the wearer from snow blindness by filtering out the glare of the sun.
A stunning parka from Greenland, made from seal intestine and decorated with beads and fur, that was worn by a woman on her wedding day.
A large-scale installation by Inuk artist Shuvinai Ashoona, depicting a fantastical scene of Arctic animals and human figures in vibrant colors.
A video projection by Greenlandic artist Jessie Kleemann, showing her performance of a traditional drum dance that expresses her identity and emotions.
A collection of banners and posters from the Arctic Youth Network, a global movement of young activists who are raising awareness and taking action on climate change.
The exhibition is supported by Citi, Julie and Stephen Fitzgerald, and the British Museum Friends. It is part of the UK-Russia Year of Music and Culture 2020-2021, and is accompanied by a programme of events, including talks, workshops, and performances.
Arctic: Culture and Climate is a timely and important exhibition that showcases the beauty and diversity of the Arctic, as well as the urgency and responsibility of protecting it. It is a rare opportunity to learn from and connect with the Arctic peoples, who have much to teach us about living in harmony with nature and each other.
