On July 8th, the Meliadine Mine celebrated a significant milestone by officially reopening its newly renovated country kitchen – a dedicated room at the mine site for Inuit culture and traditional activities. This special occasion, which coincided with Nunavut Day, marked the transformation of a standard lunchroom into a vibrant hub that celebrates Inuit culture. The renovation and design, successfully enhanced the kitchen’s ambiance, making it a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy traditional country food and cultural connections.

A Space Reimagined

The highlight of the reopening was the stunning mural created by Ashton Kadjuk from Arviat, a former employee of Agnico Eagle, whose artistic talent has brought a new dimension to the country kitchen. Ashton’s mural, now adorning the walls of the kitchen, is a breathtaking display of his creativity and passion. Inspired by his childhood memories and his father’s imaginative storytelling through art, Ashton’s work captures the essence of Inuit culture and adds a unique, inspiring touch to the kitchen.

A Heartfelt Thank You

The Meliadine Mine site extends its sincere gratitude to Ashton Kadjuk for his extraordinary contribution and to everyone who joined us in celebrating the reopening of the country kitchen. This space is now more than just a place to enjoy a meal; it represents our commitment to cultural heritage, neighboring communities, and creativity.

Ashton Kadjuk

Ashton Kadjuk’s background as an artist is as rich and compelling as his mural. From a young age, Ashton was captivated by art, inspired by his father’s imaginative storytelling through pictures. His love for drawing and visual storytelling has shaped his artistic style, which is now beautifully showcased in the Meliadine country kitchen. Ashton’s work not only enhances the kitchen’s environment but also serves as a reminder of the power of art to connect with Inuit culture.