The Yukon is an inspiring place where artists express themselves using conceivable materials and mediums. From the fireweed glowing during the midnight sun, the ice fog, and the colorful sunsets, all regions in the Yukon offer rewarding cultural and art experiences. Although the Yukon is among the places you can enjoy outdoor adventures, you can also take a break and see art and culture by attending workshops, admiring public art, or attending festivals. So, where can I see art and culture in the Yukon?
The popular co-op run art gallery provides a venue for established and emerging artists. Currently, it’s situated at the corner of 4th Avenue and Wood Street in Whitehorse. Today, you can attend showcases by various artists from diverse artistic disciplines, such as potters, sculptors, fiber artists, and painters. Since artists take turns running the gallery, you can talk to different artists during your visit.
The Yukon Arts Centre is the only Class-A facility and Public Art Gallery that hosts around 10 to 14 exhibitions yearly. It features a wide range of innovative exhibitions in contemporary art from international, local, and national perspectives. YAC promotes artists and hosts national exhibitions. The facility is situated on the traditional territory of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council.
Located in Dawson City, the centre of culture hosts exhibitions, art festivals, the Odd Gallery, and courses to carry on with the rich and cultural diversity of the Klondike. Therefore, if you’re ever in the Yukon and need to experience Northern art and culture, consider attending the presentations, workshops, lectures, and special programs offered by this art school.
The Yukon is home to some of the best First Nation artists. Yukon First Nations artists are influenced by their traditional culture, spirituality and the natural world:
Public art is prominent across the territory in places like Whitehorse, Carcross and Dawson City. In Whitehorse, the capital city, visitors can view an incredible range of public art: sculptures made with bronze, granite, metal and wood, murals, First Nations art, such as totem poles, and engravings.
For decades, Kwanlin Dün First Nation and Ta’an Kwäch’än Council citizens have shared their history and culture through art. Artists can showcase and promote their art at the Yukon Arts Centre (YAC) and other galleries and studios. Visit the Yukon and enjoy their rich heritage.