NUNAVUT - The deadline for nominations for the first Nunavut Commissioner's Arts Award has been extended until June 8. The award includes a cheque for $10,000.

Rankin Inlet elder Mariano Aupilardjuk could be a candidate for the first Nunavut Commissioner's Arts Award to honour outstanding artists in Nunavut. The winner will be announced this coming month in Iqaluit. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

In announcing the creation of the award this past month, Nunavut Commissioner Ann Meekitjuk Hanson said Nunavut artists promote the territory throughout the world.

She said their work supports Nunavut's economy, encourages appreciation of Inuktitut and Inuit culture, and brings international recognition to the unique creative voice of Nunavummiut.

The award will be presented annually to an established Nunavut artist who has made a major contribution to the arts over a significant period of time.

The artist may have distinguished themselves in the performing arts, visual arts or literature.

Candidates for the award must be nominated, receiving the support of three individuals or organizations. Individuals may only receive the award once.

Hanson said she's been thinking about the award every since she found out how southern provinces award their artists, sometimes with cash prizes as high as $25,000.

She said Nunavut has so many talented people, it was time for such an award.

"We decided a person could only win the award once because we have so many artists to celebrate in Nunavut, some of them in their 80s and 90s," said Hanson.

"There are also a lot of new artists coming out, so we want to recognize as many as possible over the years."

Hanson said Nunavut art plays many roles on the international stage, including keeping Inuit culture alive.

"So many of our artists create items from legends, old songs, Inuktitut and nature, and that brings attention to Inuit culture.

"Inuit art is inspirational to many people around the world.

"As Inuit, we don't buy our own work, so we look to the rest of the world to be consumers of our art."

Hanson said she can't understand why some people had a problem with an Inukshuk-type character being selected as the symbol for the Olympic Games in Vancouver.

She said the choice was an excellent idea.

"I was elated when I learned an Inukshuk had been picked to symbolize the Olympics.

"Inuit appreciate sports of all kinds, and I am not offended, whatsoever, that an Inukshuk is being used as a symbol for a very, very ancient cultural and sporting event.

"Inuit should be grateful our symbol of so many things is being respected."

Anyone requiring more information on the nomination procedure for the art award can contact the Office of the Commissioner of Nunavut in Iqaluit.