Inuvik (May 19/06) - Dan Gainsford finds himself at the starting line of a cross-continental project that he has been working on since 2001.

The Quebec-born filmmaker is travelling to Ulukhaktok (Holman) to film a documentary about traditional lifestyles.

Forbes Campbell (left) and Dan Gainsford are in Inuvik shooting part of a documentary which focuses on traditional living and how people use the land. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

"I want to explore the loss of traditions throughout different cultures," said Gainsford.

The plan in Ulukhaktok is to spend a week talking to elders and other people of the region about how life was in the old days, and how they continue to live off the land today.

"We don't have any set length determined in Holman," said Gainsford.

"We don't want to rush things. We want to get as much as we can."

The pair spent time in Inuvik volunteering their time at the community greenhouse.

"We want to help the people who are helping us through our project," said Gainsford.

Planning of the project began in 2001, when Gainsford started writing grant proposals. "I've always been fascinated with ancient knowledge and interested in different landscapes," explained Gainsford about his reasoning behind the feature.

"As a people, we need to get back in contact with the land."

Documenting traditional farming methods and experiencing the simpler life are some of the goals that have been set.

"We are not just looking at aboriginal and native cultures, but also looking at traditional values as well," explained Gainsford.

Joining him on his travels is Forbes Campbell, his assistant and long-time friend.

Campbell assists Gainsford with logistical duties.

"We thought it would be better to have two people on the crew for security reasons, and to help with the driving," said Campbell.

Once the pair have spent their time in Ulukhaktok, they plan on driving through Alberta and into the United States.

"Our end goal is the Panama Canal," said Gainsford.