Shelton Nipisar

Shelton Nipisar is an Arviat-based dancer who has been shaping the lives of children and youth through dance. He grew up in Arviat where he has been dancing for as long as he can remember. It has helped him express himself and saved his life. Through dance, he hopes to be able to inspire others to create their own methods of escape and self-expression.

Shelton Nipisar has been honing his traditional dance skills for the past two years while furthering his education at a unique college program called Nunavut Sivuniksavut that is based in Ottawa.

Shelton has been showcasing his skills with his dancing partner Malachi at special events such as wedding ceremonies, birthday parties and talent shows. They also have been competing at an annual event that started back in 2010. This event starts right before the Christmas season. Most of the community members attend as audience members, dancers and as artists. Both of them were 1st place for 3 years in a row from 2013 – 2015 which no group have done before. They also have travelled to Rankin Inlet with their fellow Arviarmiut to go compete at a dance event several years ago which they have won the 1st prize there.