Rankin Inlet (May 31/06) - Art lovers in Rankin Inlet renewed an old friendship earlier this month.

The community's three schools (Leo Ussak elementary, Alaittuq middle school and Maani Ulujuk High) teamed up to host a show featuring the work of their art students this past semester.

Rene Kabvitok checks out some of the items on display during the art show at Leo Ussak elementary in Rankin Inlet earlier this month. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

Leo Ussak principal Harold Goobie says the show was quite popular in the community when it used to be held years ago.

He says a group of teachers decided to resurrect the program as a way to showcase their students' efforts.

"A lot of people were more than a little surprised by the calibre of work they saw," Goobie says. "The support we received for the show was just phenomenal.

"I couldn't believe the number of people who came to the gym that night."

There were a number of different art forms on display, including sculptures, carvings, sketches and animation, among others.

Goobie says the show covered most local favourites and it was nice to see the different interests the students have in art.

He says teachers Dianne Budgel, Chris Eccles, Sue Denison and Bev Hill did an outstanding job in organizing the event.

"I had a number of comments directed my way during the show as to the quality of the work and how good it was to be able to view everything together like that.

"Judging by that, I'd say the show was a big success and something we may look at holding on an annual basis."

Goobie says the students enjoyed having the opportunity to show their work to the community, and, also, to see the progression of art from kindergarten to Grade 12.

"For our younger students, it was a nice display of what they could achieve a little further down the road.

"The show was a motivational tool for them."

"They all took a lot of pride in their work. That was clearly evident."