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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

Family on the Astral Plane of Enlightenment

By Norval Morrisseau ( 1932-2007)

Text provided by the Official Estate of Norval Morrisseau

Artistic and Cultural Introduction:

Set against a vivid yellow backdrop that symbolizes the expansive and enlightening celestial realm, this canvas by Norval Morrisseau transports us on an astral odyssey that is both rich in spiritual symbolism and vibrant in color. The night sky, typically depicted in traditional dark hues, is instead rendered in a radiant yellow, teeming with celestial bodies painted in hues of blue and white, alongside a deep blue crescent moon, creating a striking and unusual contrast. This otherworldly dreamscape journey is vividly framed by the velvety blues and vibrant reds of the earthly realm, with elements like the guiding bear, celestial bodies, and offerings to the ancestors all vividly depicted to enhance the narrative.

Morrisseau’s dynamic brushwork infuses each stroke with the energy and essence of this spiritual journey, capturing the intense interplay between the earthly and the celestial. The family's passage into the astral plane, highlighted by the distinctively patterned clothing that contrasts with the rich, vivid colors of their surroundings, serves to emphasize their spiritual elevation. This interplay not only deepens the visual impact of the painting but also underscores the profound themes of connection between the physical and spiritual worlds, illustrating the family's transcendent journey through a visually rich and symbolically deep tableau.

Cosmological Interpretation by Elder Philip Cote:

Morrisseau’s painting delves into the philosophical and spiritual underpinnings of Ojibwe culture, showcasing the profound respect for elders, the natural world, and the celestial bodies that guide their existence. The family’s transition into the astral plane, portrayed in a rich tableau of colors, marks a profound culmination. Elder Cote reflects, "This powerful depiction of the soul’s ascent into the celestial realm, set against a backdrop of the eternal yellow day, celebrates the journey our spirits embark upon after this earthly existence. It’s a vivid celebration of the spiritual legacy we carry throughout life and beyond, reminding us of our perpetual connection to the cosmos and the ancestral spirits that accompany us."

Additionally, in this journey, the family is depicted as bringing forth the Tree of Life, a sacred symbol in Ojibwe cosmology. As they ascend into the celestial realm, the Tree of Life emerges from their collective spirit, its roots anchoring them to the earth while its branches reach towards the heavens. This symbolic gesture reinforces the interconnectedness of all living beings and the enduring wisdom passed down through generations, further enriching the spiritual narrative of the painting.

Digging Deeper into Indigenous Legends: 

Transition to the Astral Plane: The Sky Woman Story:

The painting’s final depiction shows the family’s spiritual ascension to the astral plane, surrounded by the rich blues and vibrant hues of celestial bodies and earthy elements. Elder Cote notes, "This portrayal mirrors the journey of the Sky Woman, descending from the celestial world to the earth in our creation stories. Morrisseau reverses this narrative to show our spirits rising to join the celestial beings, guided by constellations and the spirit bear, marking our return to the stars and our celestial origins after life’s journey."

This artwork serves as a powerful allegory for Indigenous aspirations to transcend colonial boundaries and reconnect with a profound spiritual and cultural heritage, celebrating the eternal journey of the soul and its connection to the cosmos. By situating the family within a cosmic context, Morrisseau invites viewers to consider broader themes of unity, interconnectivity, and spiritual renewal. This broader perspective resonates deeply within the community, offering a vision of liberation and return to sacred origins that challenges the disruptions of colonial impact and affirms the enduring strength of Indigenous cosmologies.

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.