Augatnaaq Eccles is an Inuk woman from Kangiqliniq (Rankin Inlet), Nunavut, and a dedicated historian, educator, curator, and artist. Her work is grounded in a passion for preserving and promoting Inuit culture, history, and rights.
After moving to Ottawa, Ontario, in 2017 to pursue post-secondary education, Augatnaaq earned a Certificate in Inuit Studies from Nunavut Sivuniksavut, followed by a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History from Carleton University. Following her undergraduate degree Augatnaaq worked in the history sector, with a focus on Inuit history. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Education.
Augatnaaq’s experience as a student at Nunavut Sivuniksavut sparked her dedication to sharing Inuit history and experiences. As an experienced instructor at Nunavut Sivuniksavut, she now teaches Inuit history and beginner Inuktitut to Inuit students, and has co-taught the Inuit-Government Relations and Nunavut Land Claims courses.
Among her creative achievements, Augatnaaq designed the Tuberculosis Parka, an art piece that weaves together traditional Inuit sewing techniques and the history of Inuit experiences with tuberculosis sanatoriums. She is also the curator of the online exhibition Ajjiliurlagit: The Photographs of Joseph Idlout, a collaboration with Dr. Carol Payne that highlights the work of influential Inuk Joseph Idlout and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit values, and the award winning exhibition Seasons of the Sun which traces life in the Arctic throughout the seasons. Additionally, Augatnaaq has led sewing workshops to pass on traditional Inuit practices, ensuring that traditional skills and knowledge are shared and preserved within the Inuit community.
Augatnaaq’s work is deeply influenced by her experience growing up in Nunavut, which shaped her understanding of Inuit values, traditions, and challenges of life in the North. At the same time, her experiences living and working in southern Canada have given her insight into the complexities of navigating and balancing life in two worlds. This perspective informs her dedication to fostering understanding and reconciliation, preserving Inuit culture, and advocating for the rights and well-being of Indigenous communities.
Augatnaaq is pleased to continue to make meaningful contributions to Inuit communities and beyond.