Morriseau – 2

 

Norval Morrisseau exploded onto the national art scene in 1962 as a result of a now famous exhibition at the Pollock Gallery in Toronto. This historic exhibition was full of firsts. An art exhibition devoted entirely to native artists was unheard of prior to 1962, never mind a solo exhibition. The brilliantly promoted event sold out and launched both Morrisseau and native art into the heart of the Canadian art scene.

Morrisseau’s work is in some ways a contradiction. His cultural knowledge of traditional Anishnaabe symbolism and stories, traditional wisdom and beliefs, are the basis for his work. Native symbolism is the heart of Morrisseau’s work. And yet the medium is anything but traditional, using modern acrylics as his tools to express these ancient ideas.

Perhaps it is this meshing of ancient imagery with modern techniques that led to Morrisseau being called the Picasso of the North. Picasso was known to have been inspired by African masks. They profoundly affected him and perhaps influenced his cubist approach to art.

And yet Morrisseau’s meshing of the modern techniques with traditional symbols could be arguably seen as more authentic. Morrisseau cannot be accused of cultural appropriation. Unlike European artists such as Picasso, Morrisseau is not borrowing from other cultural traditions. He is working from within his own traditions and translating them through his own unique artistic perspective.

And like any artistic master, Morrisseau’s work does not have to be viewed by a native to be understood. Their impact is universal. His bold use of symbolism and colour make for powerful and impactful pieces. They are exciting and innovative works.

The success of Morrisseau nationally and internationally has led to an explosion in Canadian native art. Just as the Group of Seven opened the doors for artists to paint authentically Canadian images, Morrisseau laid the groundwork for Canadian native artists to be authentic to their own culture and experiences while still being considered part of the broader artistic scene.

The story of Norval Morrisseau and more importantly his art has forever changed the Canadian art world. He has added a dimension and depth that has enriched and enlivened. His impact is far-reaching. This is one genie that can never be returned to the bottle.