tupiq

A tupiq is a type of traditional Inuit dwelling. It is a portable tent, historically made from animal skins such as caribou or seal, stretched over a frame of bone or driftwood. These structures were essential for the nomadic lifestyle of the Inuit people, allowing them to move with the seasons and follow hunting grounds.

The construction of a tupiq varied depending on the region and available materials. Generally, they were conical or dome-shaped, designed to withstand harsh Arctic winds. The skins were carefully prepared, sewn together, and then secured to the frame. The entrance was typically a flap that could be closed to provide protection from the elements.

Tupiqs were well-suited for the Arctic environment. Their insulating properties helped keep inhabitants warm in cold temperatures, and their lightweight construction made them relatively easy to transport during migrations. While modern housing has largely replaced the tupiq for permanent residences, understanding these traditional shelters offers insight into the ingenuity and resilience of Inuit culture and their adaptation to extreme conditions. The knowledge of building and using tupiqs is still passed down through generations.