FOREWORD

The purpose of this exhibition is to offer the public - both local and beyond our borders - a chance to experience the life as well as the work of  Aboriginal artist Norval Morrisseau, who emerged dramatically as an international talent while living and working in the Red Lake area, from 1950 to 1975. Until now, this part of Morrisseau’s story has received little attention.  It was our belief that this cultural heritage deserved exploration and celebration by both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, in the landscape and the social environment which inspired the artist during his formative years. As the innovator of the “Woodland School of Art” Morrisseau broke with Ojibway tradition in presenting to the general public depictions of traditional legends, spiritual beliefs and a world view of his people.  His work, and that of those who followed his path, continues to provide a richness of information and opportunity for cross-cultural understanding.

The Red Lake Museum is committed to advancing knowledge, appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal art and culture, as well as the First Nations’ contribution to the Red Lake District.  We hope that this story will encourage and support current and emerging artistic talent, especially among Aboriginal youth from the region, by highlighting Morrisseau’s connections with Red Lake at an important point in his development.

Due to space restrictions only some of the stories compiled during our research have been recorded in this publication.  Since this story is essentially a living history, this is in no way the final word on Norval Morrisseau.  If you want to know more about this remarkable artist, we suggest you talk to the people of Red Lake.  This was where the idea of this project was born: to use the rich oral tradition of the area to reveal a story that shaped the future of Aboriginal art in Canada.

Michele Alderton   Director/Curator Red Lake Museum

Nancy Phillips Researcher/Project Co-Ordinator