Norval Morrisseau is one of the most original and important artists this country has ever produced. He is also one of Canada's most internationally known artists. Morrisseau, who spent a large part of his life in Red Lake, Ontario, was the first to paint his people's cultural heritage and, as a result of his work, the Woodland Indian School of Art evolved. He is the sole originator of the style.
The myths, history, and environmental truths portrayed in his work have no precedence in the world. The genius of his paintings speaks to us of the past, and cautions us about the future. Combined with legends are historical facts relating to early native history and archaeological theory.
Norval Morrisseau is considered one of the greatest Canadian painters of all time and is placed alongside Tom Thomson and Emily Carr. He has been the recipient of the Order of Canada, Doctor of Lawa, Doctor of Letters, a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Art, a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, recipient of the Lifetime Aboriginal Achievement Award, holder of the Eagle Feather, which is the highest honour awarded by the Assembly of First Nations, and Grand Shaman.
Shaman and Disciples - 1979
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