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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

Shaman Grandfather Telling Stories of the Giant Bear

By Norval Morrisseau ( 1932-2007)

Text provided by the Official Estate of Norval Morrisseau

Artistic and Cultural Introduction:

This vivid artwork by Norval Morrisseau unfolds a narrative set within a vibrant encampment beneath towering blue mountains and a radiant sky. The painting is infused with bright, lively colors: the mountains are cloaked in shades of deep blue with snow-capped peaks, contrasting with the green grass of the lakeside setting. The sun, depicted in bold orange, radiates warmth over the scene, suggesting the close of day.

The family is gathered inside an orange wigwam, their faces and attire rendered in contrasting colors of blue, orange, and red, emphasizing the spiritual and communal engagement of storytelling. The white bear, a protective spirit in Ojibwe spirituality, is symbolically portrayed with yellow and green, marking its sacred presence overseeing the familial gathering. Additionally, ancestors depicted in a canoe, reaching down into the water, symbolize the deep connection to heritage and the continual guidance from past generations. Morrisseau’s choice of these meditative colors not only reflects the calm of the twilight but also embodies the spiritual watchfulness integral to Ojibwe spirituality.

Cosmological Interpretation by Elder Philip Cote:

In this serene lakeside scene, the family’s encampment embodies a moment of communal harmony and connection to the earth, underscored by the presence of the protective spirit bear. Elder Cote explains, "The vibrant, contrasting colors of the campsite and surrounding nature highlight a temporary home—a place to gather strength and wisdom from both the land and our community. It symbolizes our life's journey, where we seek places of peace and reflection amid our travels, drawing continually from our surroundings and each other. The inclusion of the sun and mountains in such vivid hues enhances our understanding of the balance and harmony within nature, reflecting the teachings of our ancestors." The ancestral spirits in the canoe reinforce this connection, serving as a visual testament to the ancestral guidance that accompanies the family.

Deepening the Interpretation with Ojibwe Legends:

Legend of the Giant Bear:

In this legend, as recounted by generations, the Giant Bear is revered as a guardian spirit, symbolizing the strength and wisdom of the natural world. Elder Cote notes, "The depiction of the Giant Bear, rendered here in a spectral form of white with yellow and green, symbolizes the indomitable spirit of our people, ever watchful and protective. Its presence in Morrisseau's work serves as a reminder of our innate connection to the land and underscores the importance of honoring and preserving our cultural heritage." The canoe carrying the ancestors adds an additional layer of meaning, symbolizing the journey of life and the ancestral spirits that guide and protect us through it.

This portrayal invites viewers into a realm where the physical and spiritual worlds intertwine, illustrating Morrisseau’s profound connection to Ojibwe cosmology through vibrant colors and symbolic imagery, serving as portals to ancestral knowledge and guiding us through the intricate tapestry of Ojibwe lore and wisdom. Each element within the artwork is meticulously chosen and rendered, enhancing the deep cultural resonance and metaphysical themes that are hallmarks of Morrisseau's style. The dynamic interplay of forms and colors not only captivates the eye but also engages the spirit, offering insights into the sacred traditions and spiritual practices that have shaped the Ojibwe way of life. This immersive experience is designed to awaken a reflective and spiritual journey within the viewer, encouraging a deeper appreciation of the rich heritage and complex belief systems that Morrisseau brings to life on the canvas.

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.