Home to world-renowned Inuit art in Kinngait, NU.

About the Community
West Baffin Co-op is located in Kinngait, NU,  surrounded by rocky hills, fjords, and Arctic waters. The dramatic light of the region has inspired artists for generations, making the community world-famous for its art.

History
Founded in 1959 during the shift away from the fur trade, the Co-op helped artists build new livelihoods through carving and printmaking. Dorset Fine Arts was later established in Toronto to support global sales. In 2018, the Co-op moved into the Kenojuak Cultural Centre and Print Shop.

What the Co-op Provides
The Co-op supports local artists, operates stores and services, and reinvests profits into the community. It remains one of the most significant cultural and economic hubs in Kinngait.

Quick Facts
• Founded: 1959
• Notable artists: Kenojuak Ashevak
• Known for: carving, printmaking, global recognition

Meanings & Phonetic Spelling
• Co-op Name Phonetic Pronunciation: West Baffin
• Full Co-op Name Syllabics: ᑭᓐᖓᐃᑦ ᑯᐊᐸᒃᑯᑦ ᑎᒥᖁᑎᖓᑦ
• Primary Indigenous Nation: Inuit
• Community Name Syllabics: ᑭᙵᐃᑦ
• Community Phonetic Pronunciation: KIN-g-eye-t