Canada Goose inc. has recently launched Project Atigi, a collection of parkas handcrafted by Inuit seamstresses from Canada’s north.
When translated into English, the Inuktitut word “atigi” means “parka”. In a literal sense, that’s the story behind this initiative: Canada Goose partnered with Inuit seamstresses to make a one-of-a-kind parka.
A New York City studio drew a crowd to see the release of Canada Goose’s new social enterprise, Project Atigi, which features the work of 14 seamstresses from across Inuit Nunangat.
Fourteen of the parka’s were on display at Studio 525 in New York City for the collection’s launch on January 31. Eight of the 14 seamstresses attended the launch.
Each woman drew from their own expertise and family history to craft their own parka, amauti or anorak using Canada Goose material, creating a new collection that’s set to go on sale internationally though the clothing manufacturer.
Parkas made by Jennifer and Martha Munick of Kuujjuaq QC, Meeka Atagootak and Rebecca Killiktee of Pond inlet NU, Winnifred Nungak Kangirsuk QC, Freda Raddi of Tuktoyaktuk NT,
Marlene Watson and Mishael Gordon of Iqaluit NU, Jackie King, Chantel Kablutsiak and Kristy King of Arviat NU, Eileen Arragutainaq of Nunavut, Chantelle Andersen and Donna Dicker from Nunatsiavut.
Canada Goose confirmed that the seamstresses retain the rights to their designs and the company will not be reproducing them.
All of the proceeds from the sale of the parkas will go to Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami.