Rankin Inlet (Mar 29/06) - A new generation of would-be artists had their creative juices flowing at Alaittuq school in Rankin Inlet this past week.

Jacqueline Alikashuak works on her print as guest instructor Jackie Ittigaitok readies another stage during a printmaking and stencilling class at Alaittuq school in Rankin Inlet last week. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

The students were introduced to the world of printmaking through a special course included in the school’s cultural-inclusion program this semester.

Instructing the kids, and lending a little helping hand along the way, were local artists John Kurok, Jackie Ittigaitok and Jack Nuviyak from the Matchbox Gallery.

The school’s lobby was a bustling beehive of colourful activity as the students learned the entire process from start to finish.

Ittigaitok said he was excited and pleased when asked to come and help out with the project.

He said it makes him happy to see artistic projects being held at the school.

"I think, in many ways, this is the best way for students to learn," said Ittigaitok.

Ittigaitok said while he and his partners were instructing the program, they were also learning a few things from the kids.

He said it’s interesting to watch children create art because they’re not bound by any rules.

"If I’m doing a project for a customer, they don’t want a purple Inukshuk or drum dancer, but kids have no fear of colour because they’re just being creative. They tend to mix colours quite a bit and try different things with their work, so it’s interesting to see the end result."

Ittigaitok said he still regrets dropping out of school when he was younger and urges youth to complete their education.

He said it’s exciting to work with kids and see their eagerness to learn.

"They were really into it and I was impressed with some of the prints they created. They don't realize how good they are, or could be, because they're kids.

"But, they did some work during this course that you wouldn’t be embarrassed to sell right now."