Red Lake Woodland Arts Festival: A Tribute to Norval Morrisseau and the Woodland Artists in 10 DAYS!

July 4th-6th, 2008
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Honouring Isaac Bignell (1958-1995)
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"Buffalo and Eagle Spirit", © Isaac Bignell

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Self taught artist Isaac Bignell was a Cree painter, born on The Pas reserve, 400 miles north of Winnipeg, Manitoba. During his short life he lived in Winnipeg, Minneapolis and Vancouver. Even influenced by Benjamin Chee Chee, Isaac eventually developed his own style of sponge painting, creating wildlife images distinguished by flowing lines. His work is very popular, and many of his images have been made into prints and cards. Although he died at the peak of his career at the age of 37, Isaac's presence lives on through well known first nations artists Russel Noganosh, who apprenticed under Isaac in 1979, and Garnet Tobacco, who includes Isaac as one of his artistic influences.

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"My art is strongly influenced by the traditions of my people. I was brought up to live off the land from an early age. Hunting and trapping, living in harmony with the earth has taught me to respect the animals and the spirit and power of nature. I hoop dance and sing Pow Wows to maintain my cultural heritage. Through art and dancing I attempt to influence native people to continue their cultural ways; the gift that was given to us by the Great Spirit."

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Isaac Bignell

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Source of image: Turtle Island Gallery

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For more information about the Red Lake Woodland Arts Festival go to: www.redlakemuseum.com.

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* The image in this posting: "Buffalo and Eagle Spirit", 22.5"x30", © Isaac Bignell /Private Collection/