Workshops

Our 2026 workshops are now live for booking!

See our live schedule here to plan your festival experience!

Our theme this year is: Gathering.
To reflect the 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.
We look forward to Gathering with you!

Gathering: 8-13th July, 2026

Applications are closed for this year. Our 2027 call will go out November 1st, 2026!
Please see our Artist Guide here for more information about attending
Volunteers are at the heart of our the festival! We show our appreciation through benefits such as: local meals, flight discounts and gallery credits!
Make your trip unique, by immersing yourself in the GNAF! There are many different options for helping us out, for any age group or skill set! Click here or email us to sign up: gnaf@inuvik.ca
Workshops are live for booking!
Our festival team puts together over 50 art and culture workshops and demonstrations during the festival - combining our space into a unique blend of creation, display and activity!
Feel free to email us at gnaf@inuvik.ca with any ideas, and if you would like to partner with us to run any activities!
Partnering with the GNAF provides a unique opportunity to work with our Northern Community and Artists on an internationally renowned platform.
To find our more about our initiative see here! We’d love to hear from you - drop our Director an email at:
gnaf@inuvik.ca
And/or sign your organisation up to support the GNAF with a corporate membership today!
Becoming a member directly supports our artist programming, and gives you early access to our workshop/event sign-ups, raffle draws and event information!
Signing up as a ‘Friend of the Festival’ enters you into our yearly prize draw too!
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

Membership Perks:

Our 37th birthday present to you!

Members get exclusive perks, this year, include:
• Early access to Workshop Ticket sales •
• Access to Opening Night art sales •

Don’t miss out—it’s worth it!

Tier 1

$25

Individual

Popular

Tier 2

$50

Friend of the Festival

Family Membership

Tier 3

$100

Corporate

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.