Matchbox Gallery

The Matchbox Gallery, located in Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, is a renowned art space dedicated to preserving and promoting Inuit fine-arts ceramics. Established in 1987 by Jim and Sue Shirley, the gallery has played a pivotal role in reviving ceramic arts in the region, making Rankin Inlet the only community producing Inuit fine-arts ceramics globally.

In the 1960s, a government-run ceramics project introduced pottery to the Inuit community of Rankin Inlet. This initiative declined by 1977, but the establishment of the Matchbox Gallery in 1987 revitalized the art form. The gallery not only showcases ceramic works but also offers workshops and training programs, fostering local talent and ensuring the continuation of this unique art practice.

The gallery features a diverse collection of artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and traditional crafts that reflect the rich cultural heritage and contemporary experiences of the Inuit people. Notably, the Matchbox Gallery has been instrumental in pioneering Inuit ceramic art, with pieces exhibited in major venues such as the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery.

Beyond its role as an exhibition space, the Matchbox Gallery serves as a community hub, providing a space for artists to create, collaborate, and share their stories. It has contributed significantly to building strong minds and artists over the years, with individuals from various Nunavut communities participating in its programs and taking their skills back to their home communities.

Visitors to Rankin Inlet can explore the gallery to experience firsthand the unique art forms and cultural expressions of the Inuit. The gallery offers insights into the creative processes of local artists and provides an opportunity to purchase authentic Inuit artworks.