We acknowledge that we are on the traditional lands of the Inuvialuit and Gwich’in peoples. Inuvik is located within the Inuvialuit Settlement Region and the Gwich’in Settlement Area, where generations of Inuvialuit and Gwich’in have lived, traveled, hunted, and gathered. We honour their deep connection to the land, water, and community, and we recognize their enduring presence and stewardship. We are grateful to live and work in this place and to learn from the cultures and traditions that continue to shape it today.

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN!

For the 37th Annual GNAF:
8-13th July, 2026
Our theme this year is: Gathering. To reflect celebration of creativity, community and togetherness, in Inuvik, NWT. Gathering reflects the spirit of Inuvik. A place where people, stories, and the land come together. It’s how traditions are passed down, friendships are strengthened, and our sense of community grows.
On the land, gathering also speaks to the abundance that surrounds us. Under the midnight sun of our Arctic town, the tundra comes alive with berries, plants, and wildlife. People and animals alike gather what the season offers, reminding us of the deep connections between community, culture, and nature.
Applications close: January 5th, 2026
Note: Rolling applications for local artists will close April 30th, 2026

APPLY HERE

Our festival team takes a rest, and hibernates over the Fall! This gives us ample time to dream up our Festival Schedule, coordinate with our partners and plan for the Summer.
Feel free to email us at gnaf@inuvik.ca with any ideas, and if you would like to partner with us to run any events!
Applications are live from: November 1st, 2025
To find our more about GNAF, and how to plan your trip, please see our Artist Guide here
All artists, please sign up here!
We’re always looking for volunteers to help us with the festival. There are many different options for helping us out, there is something for any age group or skill set! Click here to sign up!
As a not-for-profit we rely on memberships, grants, fundraising and donations to support our Northern artists each year.
Being a member gives you early access to our workshop sign-ups and event information! Please click here to sign up today.
We’re looking for people interested in northern arts to be a part of our team! If you’re interested in being part of one of the longest standing festivals in Canada, we’d love to hear from you.
Please contact Adi at: gnaf@inuvik.ca

Where it all started ...

Based in the remote community of Inuvik, Northwest Territories, the Great Northern Arts Society (GNAS) was founded in 1988 as a not-for-profit Society; by passionate local people creating a space of celebration, gathering and arts economy for northern artists.
Inuvik lies in the heart of the Western Arctic, in the Beaufort Delta. Laying on ancestral Gwich’in lands, we are a remote community of 2500+ people, made up of a rare melting pot of many cultures, backgrounds and skills from all over the world.
The GNAS works to celebrate our artists, helping them discover their spotlight and embrace their “main character energy.” We hope you will join us in this incredible narrative, becoming part of the energy that makes our festival so extraordinary.
Who we are ...

We are our artists, and their stories are the heart of our festival. Each participant’s journey is unique, and we are dedicated to crafting an individualized experience for everyone who joins us. Our staff, board, and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that every artist feels supported, valued, and empowered.
At the core of our festival lies an unwavering commitment to our community, fostering an environment that is enriching, educational, and safe for all. Over the years, we have welcomed artists from diverse backgrounds, expressions, ages, and stages of their careers, creating a vibrant tapestry of culture, inspiration, and shared stories.
Our success is reflected in the growth of the artists who have thrived here. In those who have found mentorship, opportunity, and a secure space to explore their creative expression. GNAS has been their platform to shine, and we are proud to be a part of their journey.
How it's going ...

We’re now the longest standing pan-arctic arts festival!
Our tireless enthusiasm and creativity have made our annual arts festival a unique and inspiring experience since its inception; bringing artists from all over the world to share our home.
We hold our artists, visiting and local, close to our hearts. They are the driving force that inspires us to continue striving to create a safe, inclusive, and accessible space where their talents are celebrated.
Our goals ...

To provide a safe, inclusive, and accessible space for all to enjoy, learn, and promote the world of art and culture; by continuing to develop the Society's role as an advocate for community wellness, and racial equity.
To create a space where artists of all genres and backgrounds feel the freedom to explore their true passion and learn from one another. A space where the northern cultures of Inuvialuit and Gwich’in peoples in the Beaufort Delta are showcased nationally and internationally.
To ensure our Society and the festival are safeguarded for future generations, as we strive to be a leader in training and professional development for arts and culture in the NWT.