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Overview FAMILY OF THE SPIRITUAL JOURNEY In Honour of Mother Father Shaman with Tree of Life Child like Simplicity with his friend the Butterfly Shaman Grandfather Telling Stories of the Giant Bear Family Begins Journey to Higher Enlightenment Family on the Astral Plane of Enlightenment Mother Earth

Child like Simplicity with his friend the Butterfly 

By Norval Morrisseau ( 1932-2007)

Text provided by the Official Estate of Norval Morrissea

Artistic and Cultural Introduction:

"Childlike Simplicity with his Friend the Butterfly" by Norval Morrisseau eloquently captures the essence of childhood through the use of tranquil blues and earthy hues. In this serene depiction, a young figure finds solace among vibrant flora, accompanied by a whimsical butterfly—a powerful symbol of transformation and renewal.

Beneath this idyllic and peaceful exterior, Morrisseau conveys a profound message: he urges adults to embrace the unburdened spirit of youth, encouraging them to shed life's complexities in favor of simplicity and clarity. By rediscovering the childlike wonder within us, we can reconnect with profound truths and unlock boundless creativity.

This evocative painting not only invites us to reclaim our innocence but also serves to honor Morrisseau's artistic legacy. It reminds us that within every adult lies the enduring spirit of a child, yearning to soar once more with newfound freedom and imagination.

Cosmological Interpretation and Indigenous Wisdom:

Elder Philip Cote offers deep insights into this depiction, noting, "The gentle palette used to illustrate the child symbolizes potential and peace—the hope for the future. In Ojibwe culture, children are revered as sacred carriers of the future, untainted and open to absorbing the ways of the ancestors." He further explains that Morrisseau’s representation of the child, set against a backdrop of nature's tranquility, speaks volumes about the purity and promise of new generations tasked with carrying forward the cultural torch.

"This artwork profoundly embodies the timeless values of the Ojibwe, masterfully capturing the core teachings about the integral roles within the family, the deep sanctity of nature, and the intensely spiritual journey each individual embarks upon," Elder Cote expounds with added emphasis. "It serves as a visual narrative that intertwines the wisdom of our ancestors with the continuous cycle of life and spiritual growth, reminding us of the intrinsic connections between our cultural heritage and the natural world."

Deepening the Interpretation with Ojibwe Legends:

Legend of the Butterfly Guide: 

Elder Philip Cote elucidates the symbolic significance of the butterfly in this artwork, connecting it to Ojibwe legends that see the butterfly as a guide through life’s transformative stages. "The butterfly, often considered a spirit animal in our stories, represents transformation and the ability to move through different life stages with grace and lightness," he states. "In this painting, the butterfly not only accompanies the child but also serves as a guide, helping to navigate the spiritual and physical growth that lies ahead.

It’s a powerful symbol of the child’s journey towards understanding and embracing their cultural heritage and the natural world." This portrayal deepens the understanding of the relationship between the young child and the broader cosmic narratives, reflecting on how the simplicity seen in childhood connects with deeper spiritual truths. 

About Philip Cote:

Cosmological interpretation and Cultural Wisdom provided by Philip Cote MFA, Young Spiritual Elder, Artist, Activist, Historian, and Traditional Wisdom Keeper from Moose Deer Point First Nation. His affiliations include Shawnee, Lakota, Potawatomi, Ojibway, Algonquin, and Mohawk. Philip Cote is a Sundancer, Pipe Carrier, and Sweat Ceremony leader, deeply immersed in his cultural heritage and spiritual practices.

The Estate extends its gratitude to Fabien Dormoy, CEO of Pictorem based in Quebec, for his meticulous oversight of the production process for Museum Quality Hors D' commerce Glicee on Canvas reproductions. Mr. Dormoy's careful management has ensured that these reproductions meet stringent longevity requirements and maintain consistent shades, promising a lifespan of up to 200 years.

VISIT THE EXHIBITION

There is no cost to visit the exhibition and the church is open to the public at 56 Queen St. East, Monday to Friday from noon to 3:00pm. We are also open for our weekly Sunday worship service at 11:00am, where all are welcome. Met is an Affirming Congregation, offering welcome and companionship to all, inclusive of age, ethnicity, gender identity, differing abilities, and sexual orientation. 

At the Estate of Norval Morrisseau:

We believe in the power of art as a means of cultural expression and understanding. Through our initiatives, we strive to make Morrisseau's artworks accessible to all, fostering appreciation for Indigenous artistry and promoting cultural understanding. We support Indigenous communities in preserving their cultural heritage through collaborative initiatives, ensuring the vitality of Indigenous cultural practices.

Moreover, we engage in global outreach by lending Morrisseau's artworks to museums and major cultural venues worldwide, promoting cultural exchange and deepening understanding of his impact.

Furthermore, we facilitate scholarly research and academic recognition of Morrisseau's art, contributing to understanding his contributions to Indigenous art within academic circles. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and digital resources, we promote public education on Morrisseau's art, fostering appreciation for Indigenous art and culture.

Additionally, we award grants to nurture creativity in Indigenous art and provide support to charitable organizations addressing systemic challenges facing Indigenous communities, contributing to positive social change.