40 Facts About James Houston

Early Life and Education

James Houston's journey began in Ontario, where his early years set the stage for his future contributions to art and culture.

1. Born on June 12, 1921, in St. Catharines, Ontario, Houston showed an early interest in art.
2. He studied at the Ontario College of Art from 1938 to 1940, honing his skills.
3. Later, he attended the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris from 1947 to 1948, expanding his artistic horizons.

Military Service and Post-War Exploration

Houston's experiences during World War II and his subsequent travels greatly influenced his artistic path.

4. He served with the Toronto Scottish Regiment from 1940 to 1945, earning the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal.
5. After the war, he ventured to the Eastern Arctic to paint, living there for twelve years and immersing himself in Inuit culture.

Contributions to Inuit Art

Houston's work with the Inuit community was groundbreaking, helping to bring their art to a global audience.

6. As a northern service officer and civil administrator of western Baffin Island, he worked closely with the Inuit.
7. In 1957, he introduced printmaking to the Inuit in Cape Dorset, revolutionizing their artistic practices.
8. Appointed as the first "roving crafts officer" by the Canadian government, he promoted Inuit handicrafts extensively.
9. He wrote promotional material to sell Inuit art in the south, creating a demand for their unique creations.
10. The Canadian Handicrafts Guild, with Houston's involvement, organized annual sales exhibitions of Inuit carvings, drawing large crowds.

International Recognition and Honors

Houston's efforts earned him numerous accolades and brought Inuit art to the world stage.

11. By the late 1950s, government-sponsored tours showcased Inuit art in Europe, South America, and the Middle East.
12. The Inuit named him "Saumik," meaning "the left-handed one," reflecting their close bond.
13. He collaborated with Inuit artists, teaching and learning from them, fostering a spirit of mutual respect.
14. In 1962, he moved to New York and became associate director of design with Steuben Glass, creating sculptures inspired by the Arctic.
15. His 70-foot high sculpture "Aurora Borealis" was installed in Calgary's Glenbow Museum in 1976.

Literary and Cinematic Achievements

Houston's talents extended beyond visual art into literature and film.

16. He wrote and produced the 1974 film "The White Dawn," based on his novel.
17. He received several honorary doctorates, including from Carleton University, Rhode Island College, and the Rhode Island School of Design.
18. In 1977, he won the Vicky Metcalf Award for his contributions to children's literature and art.
19. He was made an Honorary Fellow of the Ontario College of Art in 1981 and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in 1987.
20. In 1997, he received the Massey Medal from the Royal Canadian Geographical Society.

Recognition and Legacy

Houston's impact on art and culture was profound, earning him numerous prestigious honors.

21. In 1972, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada.
22. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, recognizing his artistic achievements.
23. His efforts helped establish the Inuit art market, paving the way for future generations of artists.
24. He played a crucial role in the establishment of the West Baffin Eskimo Co-Operative.
25. Houston lived in Cape Dorset with his wife Alma and their two sons until 1962, fostering artistic collaboration.

Personal Life and Memoirs

Houston's personal experiences and relationships deeply influenced his work and legacy.

26. After his marriage to Alma ended, he moved to New York City and later married Alice.
27. His memoir "Hideaway: Life on the Queen Charlotte Islands" reflects his connection with indigenous cultures.
28. He authored several children's books, including "Eagle Song" and "Eagle Mask."
29. One of his ethnographic works, "Songs of the Dream People," highlighted indigenous traditions.
30. He adapted his novel "The White Dawn" into a screenplay for a Paramount Pictures movie.

Teaching and Later Years

Houston's passion for art and culture continued through his teaching and travels.

31. He taught writing part-time at the University of California's Santa Cruz campus for over twenty years.
32. In spring 2006, he held the Lurie Chair as Distinguished Visiting Professor in Creative Writing at San Jose State University.
33. He traveled widely in the Pacific Basin, lecturing at various universities and serving as a Smithsonian Lecturer.
34. His stories and essays appeared in publications like The New York Times, The New Yorker, and Rolling Stone.

Enduring Impact and Legacy

Houston's contributions to art and culture continue to inspire and influence.

35. He passed away in April 2009 due to complications from lymphoma.
36. His non-fiction work "Farewell to Manzanar," co-authored with his wife Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston, remains a significant literary work.
37. His innovations in printmaking and sculpture expanded the scope of Inuit art.
38. The collaborative spirit he fostered between La Guilde, himself, and Inuit artists continues to thrive.
39. Another notable figure, Edwin James Houston, influenced commercial lighting, but is unrelated to the artist James Houston.
40. James D. Houston, a different individual, is known for his novels and non-fiction works, including "Farewell to Manzanar."

Houston's Lasting Legacy

James Houston's life was a tapestry of art, culture, and innovation. From his early days in Ontario to his transformative years in the Arctic, he left an indelible mark on the world of Inuit art. His introduction of printmaking to the Inuit, his role as a civil administrator, and his efforts in promoting Inuit handicrafts were groundbreaking. Houston's work with Steuben Glass and his contributions to literature and film showcased his versatility. His honors, including the Order of Canada and the Massey Medal, reflect his significant impact. Houston's legacy lives on through the thriving Inuit art market and the continued appreciation of indigenous cultures. His story is a testament to the power of art in bridging cultures and preserving heritage. James Houston's contributions will inspire artists and cultural enthusiasts for generations to come.