NORVAL MORRISSEAU BLOG

The Morrisseau Time Machine (Part VI)

2012-02-02T04:03:00.010-04:00

-
When: Some Time in 1985;
Where: Richmond Street, Toronto, Ontario

-
-

"Standing Brave", 100"x56", © 1985 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

>The above presented image of a genuine Norval Morrisseau painting on canvas is one from the 'Subway Collection' currently available for purchase at Maslak McLeod Gallery, owner Mr. Joseph McLeod of Toronto, Ontario. Click HERE, HERE & HERE for detailed large resolution images of sections of the above painting.

"Standing Brave", 100"x56", © 1985 Norval Morrisseau
~ Inscription on the back /Click on image to Enlarge/

Note: Inscribed with black paint "Coralyn - RENT - Norval"
~ Please refer to Morrisseau History Detective Stories (Part IV)-

> The following is a letter Norval Morrisseau wrote to his landlord Carolyn some time in 1985.

Note the envelope Norval Morrisseau used to send letter to his ladlord Carolyn: 'Northern and Indian Affairs Canada' to Norval Morrisseau (received from the Honourable David Crombie, PC, OC who at that time served as a Minister of Northern and Indian Affairs).
/Click on image to Enlarge/

~ Norval Morrisseau expressed great sense of humour by drawing a post stamp with smiley face on it!-

-

~ Page 1 /Click on image to Enlarge/

~ Page 2 /Click on image to Enlarge/

- -
-

~ Page 3 /Click on image to Enlarge/

~ Page 4 /Click on image to Enlarge/-

-
-

~ Page 5 /Click on image to Enlarge/

-
-

~ Page 6 /Click on image to Enlarge/

~ Page 7 /Click on image to Enlarge/

-

~ Page 8 /Click on image to Enlarge/

~ Page 9 /Click on image to Enlarge/

> It is clear from the painting and the letter that Norval Morrisseau worked with Mr. Julian Porter (a Chairman for the Toronto Transit Commission - TTC) and The Honourable David Crombie (a Minister of Northern and Indian Affairs) on a mural project for the University Avenue subway station adjacent to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). He was working on a $300,000 contract with the TTC (see Page 6) and at least one of the paintings (shown above) was given to his landlord Carolyn as a rent payment (see Page 8). Also, he expressed his dissatisfaction with Ritchie R. Sinclair a.k.a. Stardreamer. Telling Mr. Sinclair to leave the project because he was not getting Morrisseau and his team anywhere except to divert him from successfully negotiating the Subway project (read Pages 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 & 8).

> Ritchie R. Sinclair a.k.a. Stardreamer scandalized this story about the 'Subway Collection' event on his website of www.morrisseau.com. Ritchie R. Sinclair misinformed the public that these paintings were stolen. He also publicly slandered Mr. Gary Lamont by calling him a drug dealer and forgery source. He has also stated that Mr. Lamont tried to create a history with Norval Morrisseau (click HERE for original post or click HERE for its screen capture). Also, Ritchie R. Sinclair wrote that I told him that it was Mr. Gary Lamont selling the 'Subway Collection' paintings through Maslak McLeod Gallery. I want to make it clear that I have never had any conversation with Ritchie R. Sinclair in regards to this matter and what he has posted on his www.morrisseau.com.

~ Click HERE to view another painting titled "Shaman with Medicine Turtle" that is offered for sale at Maslak McLeod Gallery that also appeared in a photograph taken in 1985 on the wall behind Mr. Gary Lamont and Norval Morrisseau in Richmond Street, Toronto, Ontario (click HERE to view original photograph taken with permission from Mr. Lamont's website).

> Mr. Gary Lamont a.k.a. Gary Bruce Thacky (Thunder Bay, Ontario) is the owner of www.woodlandartgallery.ca and he did not need to create a history with Norval Morrisseau. Mr. Lamont was a very close and good friend of Norval Morrisseu. Mr. Morrrisseu always kept Mr. Gary Lamont in high regards right from the very beginning of their relationship. Mr. Gary Lamont had a connection with the artist that went back to the beginning of the 1980's and Norval Morrisseau was a family friend since the early 1960's (click HERE).-

~ All the paintings presented now and in the past on www.woodlandartgallery.ca are authentic pieces of art by Norval Morrisseau.

Reference: The following individuals were mentioned in Norval Morrisseau's letter to his landlord Carolyn (building owner being Mr. Wayne Tricket):

~ Steven Harvey and Tony Liddell - rented space for Norval Morrisseau (Page 2);
~ Ritchie Sinclair - Norval Morrisseau's apprentice (Pages 2, 3, 8, 4, 5 & 7);
~ Larry from 'Bear Gallery' (Page 3);
~ The Honourable Lily Munro, Minister of Culture (Page 5);
~ Mr. Julian Porter, who was a Chairman of the TTC from 1979 to 1987 (Page 6) &
~ The Honourable David Crombie*, PC, OC who at that time served as a Minister of Northern and Indian Affairs (Pages 6, 7 & 8).

* The Honourable David Crombie served as Mayor of Toronto from 1972 to 1978 and as Member of Parliament from 1978 to 1988, during which time he served in three different federal Cabinet posts: Minister of Health and Welfare, Minister of Northern and Indian Affairs and Secretary of State.-

>>> Reference posts:
- The Morrisseau Time Machine (Part I),
- The Morrisseau Time Machine (Part II),
- The Morrisseau Time Machine (Part III),
- The Morrisseau Time Machine (Part IV),
- The Morrisseau Time Machine (Part V),
- Otavnik Vs Sinclair SC 09-00082782-0000,
- Who is Ritchie R. Sinclair a.k.a. Stardreamer? &
- CASE SUMMARY: Otavnik Vs Sinclair SC 09-00082782-0000.
-

After 3 years of RCMP & Thunder Bay Police Service investigation no evidence of fraud* found

2012-02-01T09:44:00.013-04:00

-
/This post was originally published on March 5th, 2011/

* - in regards to any painting and/or paintings done by Norval Morrisseau

--

>>> An Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) investigation which began in 2008 has now ended. Accusations were made about fraudulent works of art done by the late Norval Morrisseau being sold to the public by galleries, auction houses and private vendors. The police departments in Milton, Ontario and Thunder Bay, Ontario were both lead to investigate. After first contacting the Milton RCMP Detachment this writer was told by staff that the case was closed and sent to the Thunder Bay Police Service. Our first conversation began with Sgt William (Bill) Quarrell of the Thunder Bay Police Service Department (tel: 807-684-1256) afterwards. Leading the investigation in Thunder Bay his team found 'no evidence of fraud in relation to any painting and/or paintings done by Norval Morrisseau' as per our conversation over the phone. Sgt Quarrell also made note that the case was closed in Thunder Bay and that it would be re-sent back down to Milton RCMP.

We later contacted the RCMP ‘Toronto West Detachment ‘ in Milton, Ontario and spoke to the leading investigative officer Sgt Gary E. Harvey (tel:905-876-9629) Sergeant Harvey was in charge of the Toronto and Greater Toronto Area of the investigation at the time of this interviewer's call in the month of February 2011. He concluded with our conversation that his investigative team had found 'no evidence of fraud in regards to any painting and/or paintings done by Norval Morrisseau'.

SUMMARY: The case began in Milton, Ontario in 2008 with many vendors, gallery owners, collectors and private citizens questioned. This case was later moved up to the Thunder Bay Police Service Department. Both investigative branches of this case have been closed down and no arrests were ever made by these two police departments to anyone in regards to accusations made of fraudulent paintings being sold at auction houses, galleries, and by private vendors - WHICH IS CONTRARY TO FALSE AND MISLEADING STATEMENTS PRESENTED IN BLOGOSPHERE AND ELSWHERE.

NOTE: The Blog Master of the NORVAL MORRISSEAU BLOG (Ugo Matulić a.k.a. Spirit Walker) was interviewed on a voluntary basis in 2009 for about 1.5 hours by Cpl Judith Falbo. Who worked for the RCMP Federal Enforcement Section in Milton, Ontario – Toronto West Detachment; and currently works at NCO I/C Kitchener Federal Enforcement Section (tel: 519-896-3542; ext 481). Cpl Judith Falbo also confirmed that after three years of investigation that the RCMP had found 'no evidence of fraud in regards to any painting and/or paintings done by Norval Morrisseau'.

BLOG MASTER'S COMMENT:

After three years of investigation by Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Thunder Bay Police Service and after four court cases over the period of five years (see reference posts listed below) nobody has ever been successful in pointing out one case where it was proven that someone made, sold, distributed or even marketed one "fake" Norval Morrisseau painting.
--

- -
-
-

>>> Reference posts:
1.1 - Otavnik vs. Vadas SC 07-51428-00,
2.1 - Michael Moniz vs. CTV Globemedia Publishing Inc.,
3.1 - Drs. Browne and Witmer vs. Bearclaw Gallery,
4.1 - Otavnik Vs Sinclair SC 09-00082782-0000 &
4.2 - CASE SUMMARY: Otavnik Vs Sinclair SC 09-00082782-0000.
--------------------------------------------------------------

- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part I),
- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part II),

- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part III) &

- Norval Morrisseau Certificates of Authenticity (COAs).-

/Signed by the artist on April 11, 2002 in Thunder Bay, Ontario/
-

>>> Morrisseau's artwork in Auction Houses, Commercial Art Galleries & Museums Around the World

2012-02-01T09:43:00.003-04:00

-
~ Reference for Morrisseau's collectors and investigators

"Ancestral Spirit with Evil Serpent", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau
~ Sold through Maslak McLeod Gallery in Toronto, Ontario CANADA
PROVENANCE: Acquired from Kahn Auctions (Randy Potters Estate Auctions), Pickering Ontario CANADA; Private collection of Mr. David Voss, Thunder Bay, Ontario
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Morrisseau's artwork in Auction Houses, Commercial Art Galleries & Museums Around the World

~ Auction Houses:

- Norval Morrisseau Authentic Paintings at Auction Houses Across North America (Part I); "LEVIS Online Auctions", Calgary, Alberta.
- Norval Morrisseau Authentic Paintings at Auction Houses Across North America (Part II); WALKER'S Auction, Ottawa, Ontario.
- Norval Morrisseau Authentic Paintings at Auction Houses Across North America (Part III); Randy Potters Estate Auctions, Port Hope, Ontario.

I appreciate all of you visiting the NORVAL MORRISSEAU BLOG. It has proven to be an exciting success as I have always envisioned it would be. The subject of Norval Morrisseau is dynamic, exciting and can often times be perplexing. We have strived to establish continuity in documented detail of Norval Morrisseau's mysterious life and career as an Anishinaabe/Woodland artist and will continue to do so.

I wish to thank all the contributors over the years for encouraging me to continue with this monumental project. This BLOG involves thousands of people; buyers and collectors alike. It is dedicated entirely to protecting the integrity of Norval Morrisseau's art and the preservation of his artistic legacy.

Hvala/Miigwetch,

Ugo Matulić a.k.a. Spirit Walker
/spiritwalker2008@gmail.com/

> For the purposes of this blog I would like to be referred to as Spirit Walker. Miigwetch!

>>> Reference posts:
- Fine Art of Investment,
- Art investments can add colour to a portfolio,
- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part I),

- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part II),

- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part III) &

- Norval Morrisseau Certificates of Authenticity (COAs).-

/Signed by the artist on April 11, 2002 in Thunder Bay, Ontario/

* The acrylic painting on canvas in this post: "Ancestral Spirit with Evil Serpent", 58"x37", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau; Sold through Maslak McLeod Gallery in Toronto, Ontario CANADA; PROVENANCE: Acquired from Kahn Auctions (formerly Randy Potters Estate Auctions), Pickering Ontario CANADA; Private collection of Mr. David Voss, Thunder Bay, Ontario

>>> "The House of Invention" by Kevin Hearn - musical tribute to Norval Morrisseau (2011)

2012-01-30T00:11:00.025-04:00

-
UPDATED /January 31st, 2012/

• Genuine Morrisseau paintings from Kevin Hearn's collection
~ Still of 'National Post' video: "Collector’s Series – The Happy Mediums"

/Click on image to Enlarge and/or click HERE to view this National Post's 'You Tube' video/

Introduction: The AGO's debut (June 11th to 30th, 2010) of the new series of guest-curated exhibitions by notable personalities passionate about the arts.

Musician, artist and devoted art collector, Kevin Hearn of Barenaked Ladies showcases works available by AR+SG that speak to his collecting interests (see above). With original artwork by Leonard Cohen, Marcel Dzama, Norval Morrisseau, Pudlo Pudlat, Lou Reed and Martin Tielli of the Rheostatics, plus Hearn's own whimsical drawings, this not-to-be-missed exhibition offers an intimate look at one of Canada's leading talents.

Note: For additional information visit Ottawa Citizen's article "Pioneer makes his final breakthrough" and previously published posts: "The Art of Norval Morrisseau in Galleries and Museums Around the World (Part VIII)" & "Another genuine Norval Morrisseau's painting exhibited at Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)".

Source: AGO Art Gallery of Ontario / Musée des beaux-arts de l’Ontario

>>> The following is the song inspired by the artwork of Norval Morrisseau, including the genuine paintings presented in the above 'You Tube' video; part of Kevin Hearn's private collection:

The House Of Invention

Here is a song about a painter you might know.
He is The Copper Thunderbird Norval Morrisseau.
He’s floating by high in the sky in a canoe.
I hope you feel the colors’ healing spell on you.

A man of conviction
On a journey, on a mission,
To find his X-ray vision,
In the house of invention.

And in the gallery heads are turning back and forth.
Somebody called him “ the Picasso of the north”.
And when I wander cloudy on a gloomy day
He’ll cheer me up like Debussy or Dubuffet.

A man of conviction
On a journey, on a mission,
To find his X-ray vision,
in the house of invention.

This is a song about a painter you might know.
He is The Copper Thunderbird Norval Morrisseau.

~ Kevin Hearn (3:16) Track Six on the album "Cloud Maintenance"

* To purchase this song (album) on iTunes click HERE.

Source: Kevin Hearn's www.kevinhearn.com

>>> Reference posts:
- Pioneer makes his final breakthrough /Ottawa Citizen/,
- The Art of Norval Morrisseau in Galleries and Museums Around the World (Part VIII) &
- Another genuine Norval Morrisseau's painting exhibited at Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO).
-

Claim Regarding the Estate of Renowned Canadian Artist Norval Morrisseau Resolved

2012-01-25T15:42:00.032-04:00

-
UPDATED /January 29th, 2012/

"Victoria and Family", 1978; "The Family", 1990's
/Copyright by Norval Morrisseau Estate/

VANCOUVER, Jan. 25, 2012 /CNW/ - A claim regarding the distribution of the estate of Norval Morrisseau, filed in BC Supreme Court by the seven children of Norval Morrisseau, has been resolved in an out of court settlement.

Norval Morrisseau, also known as Copper Thunderbird, was an eminent aboriginal artist who founded the Woodlands School of Art. His works often portrayed the legends of his people, and were characterized by vibrant colours and x-ray views of people and animals.

Mr. Morrisseau was awarded the Order of Canada in 1978 and was acknowledged as Grand Shaman of the Ojibwa in 1986. He died on December 4, 2007.

In the settlement, Gabor Vadas, the executor and sole beneficiary under Mr. Morrisseau's will, and the Morrisseau children have agreed to share in the artist's estate. The agreement recognizes the significant relationship Norval had with Gabor Vadas and the Vadas family, and also ensures that the Morrisseau Family shares in their father's artistic legacy.

Ted Charney, co-counsel for the Morrisseau family, said, "This settlement ensures that the children of Mr. Morrisseau are able to share in management of their father's artistic legacy while also recognizing the important role that the Vadas family played in Mr. Morrisseau's life."

The Morrisseau Family wishes to enhance the legacy of Norval Morrisseau's art and aid his own native community through projects such as a memorial meeting house for artists in Keewaywin, museum exhibits and retrospectives and proper management of the copyright of his art.

Mr. Vadas, who was adopted by Mr. Morrisseau in accordance with the artist's shamanistic traditions, views the settlement as an opportunity for the parties to reconcile past differences and focus on increasing public understanding of Norval Morrisseau's art.

Michael Miller, counsel for Mr. Vadas and the estate, commented that, "The cooperation between the Morrisseau children and Mr. Vadas will help ensure that the integrity of the works of one of Canada's foremost artists is protected and maintained."

Amy Francis, co-counsel for the Morrisseau family, also expressed optimism that, "The Morrisseau children and Gabe Vadas will now be able to move forward together, working to protect and enhance the important cultural legacy left by Norval."

The Morrisseau Family was represented by Amy Francis of Legacy Tax + Trust Lawyers in Vancouver, BC and Ted Charney of Falconer Charney LLP in Toronto, Ontario.

Gabor Vadas and the Estate of Norval Morrisseau were represented by Michael A. Miller and Manuel A. Azevedo, Barristers and Solicitors, Vancouver, B.C.

For further information:

Theodore P. Charney
Falconer Charney LLP
(416) 964-3408
tedc@falconercharney.com

Michael A. Miller
Barrister and Solicitor
(604) 685-7207
mmiller@direct.ca

Source: CNW 'Canada Newswire'

Related articles from other media:
~ Morrisseau children reach out-of-court settlement over artist’s estate /The Globe and Mail/,
~ Family of renowned B.C. aboriginal artist settles legal dispute with 'adopted' son /The Vancouver Sun/, ~ Photos: Norval Morrisseau and his art /The Vancouver Sun/ & ~ Norval Morrisseau family, beneficiary make a deal /CBC/.
-
*The paintings in this post shows a celebration of Norval Morrisseau's first grandchild from his daughter Victoria and Norval Morrisseau with Gabor M. Vadas & Michele Vadas with their first-born child: "Victoria and Family", 1978, © Norval Morrisseau Estate; "The Family", c. 1990's; © Norval Morrisseau Estate /Collection of Gabor & Michele Vadas/

Animated short inspired by the life of Norval Morrisseau's grandson nominated for Genie Award

2012-01-25T08:02:00.004-04:00

-
* The Genies are the Canadian equivalent of the Oscars

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

--
-
-
-

CHOKE Poster
/Click on image to Enlarge/

On January 17th, 2012 the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television at simultaneous news conferences in Toronto and Montreal nominated CHOKE in the Best Animated Short category of the 32nd Annual Genie Awards.

CHOKE
/Written & Directed By Michelle Latimer; Produced By Michelle Latimer & David Miller/

When Jimmy leaves his First Nations reservation, drawn by the lures of city life, he finds himself confronting a world he could never have imagined. In his encounters with the city’s lost souls, he is reminded that no matter how far you travel, you cannot escape who you are. Inspired by the life of the late teenaged artist Kyle Morrisseau (grandson of famed painter Norval Morrisseau), Choke uses stop-motion animation to explore themes of urban isolation and the individual search for identity in modern society.

-

Source: 'Five animated shorts nominated for Genie Award'
/Big Cartoon News/

Note: Kyle Morriseau (1992-2009) was from Keewaywin First Nation, Ontario, CANADA. He started painting in January 2008, after the passing of his grandfather Norval Morrisseau. He felt proud to help keep the Morrisseau family tradition and stories alive. He had three art shows with his father Christian and one with his grandfather’s works. Kyle Morriseau was a student at Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

>>> Reference posts:
- IN MEMORIAM: Kyle Morriseau (1992-2009),
- The Last Homecoming of Norval Morrisseau (Part I),
- The Last Homecoming of Norval Morrisseau (Part II),
- Norval Morrisseau's Family (Part I),
- Norval Morrisseau's Family (Part II) &
- In memory of Harriet Morrisseau (Kakegamic).

* Norval Morrisseau & Harriet Morrisseau (Kakegamic) have 7 children by direct bloodline (David, Michael, Peter, Eugene, Christian, Victoria and Lisa), 17 Grandchildren and 13 Great Grandchildren.

>>>> Morrisseau Family Vs. Gabor Michael Vadas... A trial date: Februrary 27, 2012

2012-01-24T10:12:00.009-04:00

-
UPDATED /January 29th, 2012/

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

--
-
-
-
The adult children of artist Norval Morrisseau, including Lisa Morrisseau Meekis, left, and Victoria Morrisseau Kakegamic, are challenging their father's will, alleging undue influence by his executor, Gabor Michael Vadas. (Adrian Wyld/Canadian Press)

Morrisseau Family Vs. Gabor Michael Vadas-

The late Norval Morrisseau was one of Canada’s most famous and influential artists. Falconer Charney together with co-counsel in Vancouver represents the children of Norval Morrisseau in their lawsuit to set aside the Last Will and Testament of their father. At stake are the rights to the late artist’s images, name and reproductions.

A trial date has been set for Februrary 27, 2012.

© Falconer Charney LLP

-

~ Click HERE for the "Notice of Civil Claim" &
~ Click HERE for the "Response to Civil Claim".

>>> Reference posts:
- Norval Morrisseau's children sue over will (Part I),
- Norval Morrisseau's children sue over will (Part II),
- Morrisseau Family Foundation,
- About the Morrisseau Family Foundation,
- The Last Homecoming of Norval Morrisseau (Part I),
- The Last Homecoming of Norval Morrisseau (Part II),
- Norval Morrisseau's Family (Part I),
- Norval Morrisseau's Family (Part II),
- In memory of Harriet Morrisseau (Kakegamic),
- Norval Morrisseau's Final Resting Place, - Extra! Extra! Copyright for the Artistic Legacy of Norval Morrisseau has been registered! & - Certificate of Registration of Copyright for 'The Artistic Legacy of Norval Morrisseau'.
-
* Norval Morrisseau & Harriet Morrisseau (Kakegamic) have 7 children by direct bloodline (David, Michael, Peter, Eugene, Christian, Victoria and Lisa), 17 Grandchildren and 13 Great Grandchildren.

Universal Power of Morrisseau Art

2012-01-23T01:12:00.000-04:00

-
"My art speaks and will continue to speak, transcending barriers of nationality, language and other forces that may be divisive, fortifying the greatness of the spirit that has always been the foundation of the Ojibwa people."

Norval Morrisseau

"Untitled" /In Honour to Ojibwa Indian Motherhood/,
© 1977 Norval Morrisseau /Click on image to Enlarge/
~ the first Blog Master's Norval Morrisseau Acquisition

Blog Master speaks...

It has been 12 years today since I acquired my first Morrisseau painting on Janyary 23, 2000. I would like to take advantage of this occasion to welcome the newcomers to this internet platform and thank all regular visitors for continuing support.

INVITATION TO ALL READERS:

There are many of you who possess important valuable information such as paintings, photographs and other printed/written materials which will greatly assist our common goal. I urge you to provide this information to me for public record. Norval Morrisseau has become one of Canada's greatest all time artists and is recognized for his importance Worldwide.

Your assistance is needed now! Your actions will greatly benefit your art as an investment and safeguard Norval Morrisseau's Legacy.

Hvala/Miigwetch,

Ugo Matulić a.k.a. Spirit Walker
/spiritwalker2008@gmail.com/

> For the purposes of this blog I would like to be referred to as Spirit Walker. Miigwetch!

* The painting in this post: "Untitled" /In Honour to Ojibwa Indian Motherhood/, 31"x26", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau; PROVENANCE: Private Collection of Ugo Matulić a.k.a Spirit Walker; acquired on January 23, 2000 from an art dealer Mr. Anthony Martinenko (Winnipeg, Manitoba) and it was sourced from the Private Collection of Mr. Rolf Schneiders (Thunder Bay, Ontario).

Is NMHS' silence golden?

2012-01-19T01:54:00.002-04:00

-

Illustration by Spirit Walker --
"NORVAL MORRISSEAU HERITAGE SOCIETY (NMHS)", Est. 2005

"The Norval Morrisseau Heritage Society was established at the request of Norval Morrisseau to research, document and preserve his artistic achievement and protect the integrity of his art. It seeks to achieve this mission by establishing and maintaining a registry of his works, publishing and updating a catalogue raisonne of his artistic output and providing the necessary expertise to authenticate his art."

Mission Statement -

~ Committee members of the NMHS are as follows:

* Elizabeth McLuhan - Dept. of History, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba;
* Dr. Ruth Philips - Professor of Art History, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario;
* Greg Hill - Audain Curator and Head of the Department of Indigenous Art at National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario;

* Lee Ann Martin - Curator of Contemporary Canadian Aboriginal Art, Museum of Civilization (not a member anymore);
* Viviane Gray - Indian and Inuit Art Centre, Dept. of Indian Affairs & Northern Development, Ottawa, Ontario (not a member anymore);
* Carmen Robertson - an associate professor of contemporary Aboriginal art history in the Department of Visual Arts, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan (a NEW member);
* Richard H. Baker - Barrister and Solicitor.

> NMHS could be contacted at norvalmorrisseauheritage@gmail.com or you may click above on each NMHS members' names to e-mail them about your questions, concernes & satisfaction or dissatisfaction of their achievements to date.

BLOG MASTER'S COMMENT: Why are they silent? Is their silence approval for what has been happening in the Norval Morrisseau Art Market? If they truly care in "protecting the integrity of Norval Morrisseau's art" they would need to speak up. Their silence is hurting the legacy of the man they are supposed to protect and the longer they wait to publish a public statement regarding this matter presented herein, the longer the legacy of Norval Morrisseau will suffer.

Ugo Matulić a.k.a. Spirit Walker
/spiritwalker2008@gmail.com/

-
- -
-

>>> Reference posts:
- Open Letter to the Norval Morrisseau Heritage Society,
- The truth behind 'Open Letter to the Norval Morrisseau Heritage Society',
- The story which preceded the 'Open Letter to the Norval Morrisseau Heritage Society'... & - Blasphemy (Part II).
-

The Power of Love

2012-01-18T01:41:00.003-04:00

"Spiritual Self Looks Beyond", 48"x36", © Norval Morrisseau

~ "The Hellen E. Band Collection"; Thunder Bay Art Gallery

/Click on image to Enlarge/-

"The love on earth reflects the love above. No quality of human endeavour is without the unremitting love of the Creator. Your gift to the world is yourself. Where you stand the Creator stands.

One day you will understand what I understood when I did my paintings."

NORVAL MORRISSEAU, Ojibway

* The artwork in this post: "Spiritual Self Looks Beyond", 48"x36", © Norval Morrisseau; See page 128 of THE ART OF NORVAL MORRISSEAU /Lister Sinclair, Jack Pollock, and Norval Morrisseau/; ISBN: 0-458-93820-3 /Toronto, Ontario: Methuen, 1979./

>>> NORVAL MORRISSEAU BLOG Celebrates Muhammad Ali's 70th Birthday

2012-01-17T02:59:00.002-04:00

Portrait of Muhammad Ali (Athlete Series), © 1977 Andy Warhol
/Click on image to Enlarge/

"He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life."

Muhammad Ali

-

>>> NORVAL MORRISSEAU BLOG Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

2012-01-16T00:17:00.002-04:00

x

Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968)

Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968) was an American clergyman, activist, and prominent leader in the African-American Civil Rights Movement. He is best known for being an iconic figure in the advancement of civil rights in the United States and around the world, using nonviolent methods following the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. King has become a national icon in the history of modern American liberalism.

King's efforts led to the 1963 March on Washington, where King delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech. There, he expanded American values to include the vision of a color blind society, and established his reputation as one of the greatest orators in American history.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was established as a U.S. federal holiday in 1986... On January 17, 2000, for the first time, Martin Luther King Jr. Day was officially observed in all fifty U.S. states.

Source: Wikipedia

-

This blog has more than 1,800 posts & more than 140,000 Unique Visitors since March 3, 2008

2012-01-08T04:44:00.015-04:00

-

"Wheel of Life" , 35"x35", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
~ Click HERE to view the inscription on the reverse side of canvas

"I don't wish my work to be exploited, but to be properly used as an art form in its proper place where for the generations of the great Ojibway people it can be seen in the future, as well as be appreciated by all our white brothers."

Norval Morrisseau, September 14th, 1962

- -
-
-
* The authentic acrylic painting on canvas in this post: "Wheel of Life", 35"x35", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau; /CURRENT OWNERSHIP: Private Collection of Ms. Maggie Hatfield/

Forensic Document Examination (Part I)

2012-01-06T08:00:00.014-04:00

"Father and Son", 30"x30", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau;
~ Analysis of the inscription on the reverse side of canvas by Mr. Brian Lindblom - Forensic Document Examiner /Click on image to enlarge/

Forensic document examination – the science today
Author : Dr. Audrey Giles
Date : May 2010

The scientific examination of documents has been an integral part of forensic science for almost a hundred years and many of the techniques developed over that period are still in use today. However, time does not stand still. The technology used to produce documents continues to evolve; the methods used to produce forgeries are ever more sophisticated; the expectations of lawyers and Courts are yet more demanding.

But forensic science is not sitting on its hands either – advances in techniques and technology mean that the forensic document examiner is fighting back.

What is a forensic document examiner? Who to instruct?

Document examiners are trained scientists. This means that they are trained in scientific method and objectivity, in assessing evidence and drawing conclusions. A good forensic document examiner is expected to hold a University Degree in a basic science – these individuals invest in their training. They have trained alongside forensic scientists and in established forensic science laboratories. They can demonstrate their continued education, having a record of attending meetings, producing research papers and refereeing journals. Very importantly, any forensic document examiner you wish to employ should have invested in equipment and laboratory facilities.

Wrongly, there is a perception that the forensic examination of documents, and particularly handwriting, is something which anybody can carry out on their kitchen table. No – forensic document examination takes place in a properly equipped forensic document laboratory. One group in particular, graphologists, frequently offer their services to the legal profession as forensic handwritings specialists. (These individuals are trained in the pseudo-science of determining personality features from handwriting.) This has absolutely nothing to do with the forensic document examination, and identification of handwritings and signatures as carried out by forensic scientists. Another group who offer services to the legal profession are scientists who have had a long career in official forensic science laboratories who then retire and, without a stick of equipment, reckon to provide the same level of work as they did in their fully equipped forensic document laboratories. They can’t – the science has moved on. No matter how impressive their CV, an invitation to hold a conference at their ‘laboratory’ will quickly clarify their actual working status!

...

To continue reading this article by Dr Audrey Giles who leads the scientific work of The Giles Document Laboratory click HERE.

~ This article is based on a lecture given on 22 January 2010 at the Chancery Bar Association, London.

Source: STEP JOURNAL
/Wealth Structuring Analysis for Trust and Estate Practitioners/
~ 'Forensic document examination – the science today'

>>> Reference post:

- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part I),
- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part II),

- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part III) &

- Norval Morrisseau Certificates of Authenticity (COAs).

/Signed by the artist on April 11, 2002 in Thunder Bay, Ontario/

* The illustration was shown in Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part III).

>>> Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part I)

2012-01-02T02:43:00.032-04:00

-
~ Reference for Morrisseau's collectors and investigators

From left to right /All paintings © by Norval Morrisseau/:

Top: "Spirit Composition", approx. 3'x4', © 1979; "Shaman Underworld", approx. 5'x3', © 1976; Middle: "Fire Spirit", 2.5'x2.5', © 1977; "Astral Spirit with Evil Serpent", approx. 5'x3', © 1978; "Copper Thunderbird", approx. 6'x4', © 1977; Bottom: "Artist Speaks with Moose Spirit", approx, 5'x5', © 1979; "Family", approx. 5'x5', © 1971. /Click on image to Enlarge/

>>> The above presented are 7 out of 12 paintings which are part of the forensic report analysis by Mr. Brian Lindblom of 'The Document Examination Consultants Inc.' - Forensic Expert & Document Examiner; Report dated January 24th, 2002.

Note: This report had been generated for Mr. Joseph McLeod of Maslak McLeod Gallery - who was at that time a member of Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC); and is currently a member of The Canadian Association of Personal Property Appraisers (CPPA).

a)

-
-

~ Dated January 24th, 2002
/Click on image to Download/

> Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/ by Mr. Brian Lindblom of 'The Document Examination Consultants Inc.' - Forensic Expert & Document Examiner with X-RCMP fraud division credentials!.

Questioned painting No. 1

Page 5)

-

"Warrior Thunderbird", 72"x48", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Note: In a report this painting is labeled as "Copper Thunderbird"
/see below/

"Copper Thunderbird", approx. 6'x4', © 1977 Norval Morrisseau
~ See page 5 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/
/Front image and inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Questioned painting No. 2

Page 6)

-

"Artist Speaks to Moose Spirit", 52"x57", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Notes: This painting is currently available for purchase at Maslak McLeod Gallery, Toronto, Ontario (click HERE or HERE)

~ This painting was shown in 2007 on page 40 in the exhibition catalogue at Maslak McLeod Gallery - Endorsed by Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Honourable James K. Bartleman (click HERE).

"Artist Speaks to Moose Spirit", approx. 5'x5', © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
~ See page 6 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/
/Front image and inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Questioned painting No. 5

Page 9)

-

"Fire Spirit", approx. 2.5'x2.5', © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Note: In a report this painting is labeled as "Fire Spirit"
/see below/

~ See page 9 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/
/Front image and inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Questioned painting No. 6

Page 10)

"Untitled", 29"x43", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Note: In a report this painting is labeled as "Spirit Composition"
/see below/

~ See page 10 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/
/Front image and inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Questioned painting No. 9

Page 13)

"Untitled", 35"x55", © 1976 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Notes: This painting is currently available for purchase at Maslak McLeod Gallery, Toronto, Ontario (click HERE or HERE); titled "Woman and Man in Nature".

~ This painting was shown in 2007 on page 36 in the exhibition catalogue at Maslak McLeod Gallery - Endorsed by Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Honourable James K. Bartleman (click HERE).

~ Click HERE to view this painting shown behind Mr. Martin Mills, Mr. Christian McLeod and Mr. Phil Fontaine who is a former Chief of the Assembly of First Nations.

In a report this painting is labeled as "Shaman Underworld"

/see below/

~ See page 13 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/
/Front image and inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Questioned painting No. 10

Page 14)

-
"Together", 40"x54", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Note: This painting was shown in 2007 on page 37 in the exhibition catalogue at Maslak McLeod Gallery - Endorsed by Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Honourable James K. Bartleman (click HERE)

"Together", approx. 4'x5', © 1977 Norval Morrisseau
~ See page 14 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/
/Front image and inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Questioned painting No. 11

Page 15)

-

"Untitled", 58"x55", © 1971 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Notes: This painting is currently available for purchase at Maslak McLeod Gallery, Toronto, Ontario (click HERE or HERE); titled "Four Warriors"

~ This painting was shown in 2007 on page 32 in the exhibition catalogue at Maslak McLeod Gallery - Endorsed by Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Honourable James K. Bartleman (click HERE).

In a report this painting is labeled as "Family"
/see below/

~ See page 15 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/
/Front image and inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Questioned painting No. 12

Page 16)

-

"Ancestral Spirit with Evil Serpent", 58"x37", © 1978 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Note: In a report this painting is labeled as "Astral Spirit with Evil Serpent" /see below/

~ See page 16 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/
/Front image and inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
/Click on image to Enlarge/

>>> The following are the Methods and Observation of Mr. Brian Lindblom of 'The Document Examination Consultants Inc.' - Forensic Expert & Document Examiner (see pages 2, 3 & 4 of Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1349/02/:

"As stated earlier, many of the signatures, hand printed titles and accompanying dates have probably been executed with a paintbrush and ink. As such the movements are somewhat more simplistic and elementary than one would expect to find in a normal cursive signature executed with a pen. Consideration was given to the influence of the writing instrument and surface in the comparison that was conducted. On some of the paintings the signature and/or title is partially missing due to either smudging or gradual removal of portions of the ink. As such, certain characteristics in the signature can no longer be assessed.

Seven of the signatures, some of which are accompanied by titles, show clear indications of writing movements that are consistent with the hand printing and signatures in the Norval Morrisseau samples. The types of similarities identified are habits of connecting certain letters and disconnecting others; proportions of one letter to another; the relative size of one letter to another; slope; spacing; and alignment. In most instances it was noted that the uppercase N and M of the given and surname had some differences in structure. Most particularly they differ from the specimens in that they often lack some of the initial movements and have separated strokes. In my opinion these discrepancies may very well be accounted for by the influence of the writing instrument, resulting in cruder letter structures.

The specific paintings that show the above similarities are: Artist Speaks to Moose Spirit,79; Copper Thunderbird, 77; Loons, 75; Spirit Composition, 79; Shaman Underworld, 78; Together, 77; and Family; 71.

The signatures and titles on the remaining paintings are either too indistinct or too abbreviated in form to allow an opinion to be expressed."

Brian Lindblom

January 24th, 2002

Source: Courtesy of Mr. Joseph McLeod, Toronto, Ontario

BLOG MASTER'S NOTE: I would like you to know that I am in no way associated with Mr. Joseph McLeod and Maslak McLeod Gallery, as I stated from the beginning. The NORVAL MORRISSEAU BLOG is posted "in honour of the Spirit of Norval Morrisseau a.k.a. Copper Thunderbird. This blog is dedicated entirely to the preservation of his artistic legacy along with the living presence of the Ojibway peoples on the North American continent".

>>> Reference post:

- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part II),

- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part III) &

- Norval Morrisseau Certificates of Authenticity (COAs).-

/Signed by the artist on April 11, 2002 in Thunder Bay, Ontario/

* The acrylic paintings on canvas presented in this post: All © by Norval Morrisseau /Private Collections and as noted/

>>> Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part II)

2012-01-02T02:42:00.007-04:00

-
~ Reference for Morrisseau's collectors and investigators

REVISITED

~ These paintings were originally acquired by Mr. Joseph Otavnik from Randy Potter Estate Auction, formerly known as Kahn Auction. /Click on image to Enlarge/

>>> The following documents were submitted in Otavnik Vs Vadas SC 07-51428-00. This court case was ruled in the plaintiff's favour.

The documents are as follows:

a) Forensic Report analysis by Mr. Brian Lindblom of 'The Document Examination Consultants Inc.' - Forensic Expert & Document Examiner with X-RCMP fraud division credentials!,

b) Apraisal by Mr. Joseph McLeod of Maslak McLeod Gallery - member of Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC),

a)

-
-

~ Dated March 13th, 2007
/Click on image to Download/

> Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1834/07/ by Mr. Brian Lindblom of 'The Document Examination Consultants Inc.' - Forensic Expert & Document Examiner with X-RCMP fraud division credentials!.

~ Dated March 20th, 2007
/Click on image to Enlarge/

> Apraisal document by Mr. Joseph McLeod of Maslak McLeod Gallery - a member of Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC).

Source: Courtesy of Mr. Joseph Otavnik, Oshawa, Ontario

~ For more background information click HERE.

>>> Reference post:
- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part I),
- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part III) &
- Norval Morrisseau Certificates of Authenticity (COAs).-
/Signed by the artist on April 11, 2002 in Thunder Bay, Ontario/

* The acrylic paintings on canvas in this post: "Untitled", 55"x19" ea., © 1969 Norval Morrisseau /Private Collection/

>>> Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part III)

2012-01-02T02:41:00.006-04:00

-
~ Reference for Morrisseau's collectors and investigators

REVISITED

From left to right: "Sacred Medicine Bear", 36"x30", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau, "Father and Son", 30"x30", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau & "Sacred Medicine Wheel", 24"x24", © 1975 Norval Morrisseau
~ These paintings were originally acquired by Mr. Michael Moniz from Randy Potter Estate Auction, formerly known as Kahn Auction. /Click on image to Enlarge/

>>> The following documents were submitted in Michael Moniz vs. CTV Globemedia Publishing Inc. CV-07-1776 SR. This court case was ruled in the plaintiff's favour.

The documents are as follows:

a) Forensic Report analysis by Mr. Brian Lindblom of 'The Document Examination Consultants Inc.' - Forensic Expert & Document Examiner with X-RCMP fraud division credentials!,

b) Apraisals by Mr. Joseph McLeod of Maslak McLeod Gallery - member of Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC),

a)

-
-

~ Dated November 5th, 2008
/Click on image to Download/

> Forensic Report analysis /File No. 1951/08/ by Mr. Brian Lindblom of 'The Document Examination Consultants Inc.' - Forensic Expert & Document Examiner with X-RCMP fraud division credentials!.

Part I

a)

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
- - -
-
"Father and Son", 30"x30", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

"Father and Son", 30"x30", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau
/Inscription on the reverse side of canvas/

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
- -
-
-

"Father and Son", 30"x30", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau
/Forensic signature analysis - Click on image to enlarge/

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

- -
--
-

"Father and Son", 30"x30", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau
/Forensic signature analysis - Click on image to enlarge/
-

b)

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

- -
-
-

"Father and Son", 30"x30", © 1977 Norval Morrisseau /Professional appraisal work done by Maslak Mcleod Gallery in Toronto Ontario by Mr. Joseph McLeod who was as of February 12th, 2007 a member of the Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC); and is currently a member of The Canadian Association of Personal Property Appraisers (CPPA) - Click on image to enlarge/
-
-

Part II

a)

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
- -
- -
- - -
-

"Sacred Medicine Wheel", 24"x24", © 1975 Norval Morrisseau

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
"Sacred Medicine Wheel", 24"x24", © 1975 Norval Morrisseau
/Inscription on the reverse side of canvas/ -

-

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
- - -
-
-

"Sacred Medicine Wheel", 24"x24", © 1975 Norval Morrisseau

/Forensic signature analysis - Click on image to enlarge/

- -
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

-- - -
--
-

"Sacred Medicine Wheel", 24"x24", © 1975 Norval Morrisseau
/Forensic signature analysis - Click on image to enlarge/ -

b)

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
"Sacred Medicine Wheel", 24"x24", © 1975 Norval Morrisseau
/Professional appraisal work done by Maslak Mcleod Gallery in Toronto Ontario by Mr. Joseph McLeod who was as of January 23rd, 2007 a member of the Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC); and is currently a member of the The Canadian association of Personal Property Appraisers (CPPA) - Click on image to enlarge/ -

Part III

a)

-

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
- -
- -
- -
-
-
- -

"Sacred Medicine Bear", 36"x30", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

"Sacred Medicine Bear", 36"x30", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
/Inscription on the reverse side of canvas/
-

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
- - -
-

"Sacred Medicine Bear", 36"x30", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
/Forensic signature analysis - Click on image to enlarge/
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
- -
--
-
"Sacred Medicine Bear", 36"x30", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
/Forensic signature analysis - Click on image to enlarge/

b)
-
-
- -
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

--
-
-

"Sacred Medicine Bear", 36"x30", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
/Professional appraisal work done by Maslak Mcleod Gallery in Toronto Ontario by Mr. Joseph McLeod who was as of January 23rd, 2007 a member of the Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC); and is currently a member of The Canadian Association of Personal Property Appraisers (CPPA); Currently part of Ugo Matulić a.k.a. Spirit Walker's Private Collection (Calgary, Alberta). - Click on image to enlarge/ -

Source: Courtesy of Mr. Michael Moniz, Brampton, Ontario

~ For more background information click HERE.

>>> Reference post:
- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part I),
- Downloadable Norval Morrisseau Forensic Reports (Part II) &
- Norval Morrisseau Certificates of Authenticity (COAs).-
/Signed by the artist on April 11, 2002 in Thunder Bay, Ontario/

* The acrylic paintings presented in this post: All © by Norval Morrisseau /Private Collections/

>>> My art speaks and will continue to speak... in 2012 & Beyond

2012-01-01T00:02:00.002-04:00

-

Norval Morrisseau/Copper Thunderbird (1931-2007)

~ Illustration by Spirit Walker--

"My art speaks and will continue to speak, transcending barriers of nationality, language and other forces that may be divisive, fortifying the greatness of the spirit that has always been the foundation of the Ojibwa people."

Norval Morrisseau

- -
-
-
* The illustration of this post is constisted of: The photograph of Norval Morrisseau taken at the opening of his first art exhibition at Pollock Gallery in Toronto, 1962; The background image taken from the illustration of the book "Crooked River" by Shelley Pearsall /ISBN: 0-375-82389-1/. The "Copper Thunderbird" Syllabics signature of Norval Morrisseau extracted from an original painting: "Syllabics": 53"x112", © 1980 Norval Morrisseau /Private Collection/

50th Anniversary of the first Norval Morrisseau's public exhibition at The Pollock Gallery

2012-01-01T00:01:00.002-04:00

-
/September 14th, 1962 - September 14th, 2012/

"Onaman Legend", oil on paper, 22"x15",
© 1962 Norval Morrisseau /Click on image to Enlarge/
* Click HERE for a label on the back of the framing of this atwork and click HERE to see an inscription on the verso of this painting indicating the purchaser on September 13th, 1962. ~ Originally part of Mr. Williams Collection, Toronto, Ontario

"I don't wish my work to be exploited, but to be properly used as an art form in its proper place where for the generations of the great Ojibway people it can be seen in the future, as well as be appreciated by all our white brothers." [1]

Norval Morrisseau, September 1962

-
--
-
[1] - Norval Morrisseau's statement after his first exhibition at Jack Pollock's Gallery (Pollock Gallery) on September 14, 1962 in Toronto, Ontario, CANADA /Quoted in Toronto Star article "Indian Artist Earns High Praise" by David Cobb - September 1962/

NOTES: This first Norval Morrisseau's exhibition was officiated by Alan Jarvis under patronage of Senator Allister Grosart and noted expert on Ojibway art and anthropology Selwyn Dewdney. ~ All paintings were sold out at the opening night for public on September 14, 1962. Total value of the art sold was $4,320.00 (minimum wage in 1962 was $1.15/hr).-

>>> Reference post:
- Paintings from Norval Morrisseau's first public exhibition at The Pollock Gallery (Part I) &,
- Paintings from Norval Morrisseau's first public exhibition at The Pollock Gallery (Part II).

* Blog Master is thanking a collector for the submission of an authentic image of an original painting by Norval Morrisseau with respects to the owner and his or her decision to remain anonymous: "Onaman Legend", oil on paper, 22"x15", © 1962 Norval Morrisseau /Private Collection/

Blog Master's Public Address IX

2011-12-31T03:16:00.008-04:00

-
~ To all readers happy holidays and prosperous 2012 ~

From left to right: Ugo Matulić a.k.a. Spirit Walker with his brother Jakša by the Indian totem after the screening of one of the "Winnetou" films, based on German author Karl May novels; Omiš, Croatia - July 1966; Source: www.almissa.com
/Click on image to Enlarge/

Hi to all,

I appreciate all of you visiting the NORVAL MORRISSEAU BLOG. It is proving to be an exciting success as I have always anticipated it would be. The subject is dynamic and evolving to say the least. I wish to thank all the contributors for encouraging me to continue with this monumental project which is dedicated entirely to protecting the integrity of Norval Morrisseau's art and the preservation of his artistic legacy.

I am using this opportunity to express a special thank you to my very good friend Mr. Michael Moniz of Brampton, Ontario for his relentless and unwavering dedication and assistance.

Allow me again to introduce myself to those who don't know me.

I was born in Split, Croatia. As a child I saw, and continue to see, the Indians of North America as members of an outstanding race. My favourite childhood memory was the time when 'Winnetou' movies were filmed in Croatia (then part of Yugoslavia). As a memento from that time were countless memories and a photograph with my brother and I in front of Indian totem pole in my hometown of Omiš, Croatia after the filming of one of the 'Winnetou' movies based on novels by the best-selling German author of all time - Karl May.

When I emigrated to Canada my aim was to become a true Canadian and contribute to the advancement of this outstanding country. I also wanted to advance the cause of the First Nations Citizens. The best way I could do this appeared through advancing the cause of native art. Researching the background of Norval Morrisseau and other native artists and their lives has shown the adversity these artists had to overcome to become recognized. Some wonderful people emerged through this research, as did the hardships the art goddess imposed on many of these talented artists.

The subject of my passion is Norval Morrisseau's art. He was one of the very few artists who started a completely new art movement: the Woodland/Anishnaabe School of Art, and has been dubbed the Father of Canadian Aboriginal Art. My extensive knowledge and research along with my personal collection which I have amassed over the years are what I draw my knowledge base from. It seems like almost every day I find a new and fantastical correlation within this man's work. It is never ending. The scope and depth of Morrisseau's visions throughout his lifetime have left an impact on my soul that I cannot describe in words. "Perhaps I should paint as Morrisseau did to express feelings otherwise would not be explicable within my vocabulary?" His Art Work is my passion...

... The artistic genius of Norval Morrisseau was best described by Jack Pollock (1930-1992) who wrote: "...Norval, with his incredible ability with the formal problems of art (colour-design-space) and his commitment to the world of his people, the great Ojibway, give one the sense of power that only genius provides... It is sufficient to say that in the history of Canadian Painting, few have, and will remain giants. Norval shall."

Thank you for your continuing support.

INVITATION TO ALL READERS:

There are many of you who possess important valuable information such as paintings, photographs and other printed/written materials which will greatly assist our common goal. I urge you to provide this information to me for public record. Norval Morrisseau has become one of Canada's greatest all time artists and is recognized for his importance Worldwide.

Your assistance is needed now! Your actions will greatly benefit your art as an investment and safeguard Norval Morrisseau's Legacy.

Hvala/Miigwetch,

Ugo Matulić a.k.a. Spirit Walker
/spiritwalker2008@gmail.com/

> For the purposes of this blog I would like to be referred to as Spirit Walker. Miigwetch!

~ Source (image):
An Unofficial Website of Omiš, Croatia at www.almissa.com
/Ugo Matulić - Webmaster/

~ Click HERE to view the above image in its original context

>>> Reference posts:
- Blog Master's Public Address I,
- Blog Master's Public Address II,
- Blog Master's Public Address III,
- Blog Master's Public Address IV,
- Blog Master's Public Address V,
- Blog Master's Public Address VI,
- Blog Master's Public Address VII,
- Blog Master's Public Address VIII,
- Will the real SpiritWalker please stand up?,
- The real Spirit Walker is standing up!,
- >>> The Story behind photograph published in the post "The real Spirit Walker is standing up!" & - The Best-Selling German Author of All Time /Ref. Karl May/.-

Norval Morrisseau a.k.a. Copper Thunderbird

2011-12-30T19:20:00.002-04:00

-
-Shaman-Visionary-Storyteller-Artist
- Anishinaabe/Canadian Painter-

© 2008 by Vanessa Liston

In an address presented in 1980 at the University of Western Ontario, Goyce Kakegamic, a prominent Anishnaabe (Woodland) artist stated:

"The aim...was not merely to establish a realistic record. The artist quickly realized that he could not draw a tree or animal as perfectly as it was made by the Creator so, in good sense, he did not try to do so. Instead, he sought out the spirit, or essence, of the tree, and represented this in his painting. This is the semi-magical characteristic so common to Native Art. The painting depicts the soul of the object. The art of representing visions or mental impressions is not new.

Today, the artist must turn to the elders of the community for age-old stories and legends, and infuse them with artistic meaning. Only those who have shared in native life gain the insights necessary to recreate that life in an art form. The basic rule is to arouse an emotional response in the audience. If the artist does not succeed in this, it may be either his own failure or that of the audience itself.

Woodland Native Art is not a primitive art form. It involves the latest in media and techniques. Its practitioners are not untrained or illiterate. The messages contained in the works are neither crude nor unsophisticated. Woodland Art is not an anachronistic curiosity cherished for its furtive glimpses into a bygone age. It is rather a representation of current philosophy and a culture that is alive and well today.

...Please do not think of us as 'Indian' artists, but rather, as artists who happen to be Indian".

Goyce Kakegamic - one of the founders of the Tripe K Cooperative

Source (Text): "Art in the Woodland Tradition" - Compiled and Edited by William F. Colborne /Used with permission/

Note: Founded by Henry, Joshim and Goyce Kakegamic the Triple K Cooperative was a silkscreening company that reproduced their own work, as well as that of other artists like Paddy Peters, Barry Peters, Saul Williams, and their brother-in-law Norval Morrisseau.
- -

Norval Morrisseau: 'Best Canadian painter ever'

2011-12-30T16:56:00.002-04:00

-
* This post was originally published on January 23rd, 2008

/Opinions and thoughts of admirers of Norval Morrisseau art, art collectors, friends.../

/Click on image to Enlarge/

NORVAL MORRISSEAU: BEST CANADIAN PAINTER EVER

I'm guessing that when the 2010 Vancouver/Whistler Winter Olympics finally roll around in two years there's going to be lots of references to Aboriginal culture. Lots of dancing, drumming, native dress, references to aboriginal creation myths during the opening ceremonies; some elders will be brought in to bless the proceedings, that kind of thing. You can already see them using an Inuksuk (those Inuit 'rock piles') as one of their official icons. And as it should be. I have no problem with it, in fact I'm all for it. Like Australians we post-centennial, post-modern Canadians like to reach back to the deep time or the dream time when it comes time to show our face to the world. How real we are. The indigenous art. What inspired up and out from the land before the blight of colonialism. See, "we" are as ancient as everybody else. As old as Europe. I suppose its a kind of progress really, but a large dose of irony might still be necessary amidst all our mutual, terribly official self-congratulation.

Residential schools aside - check out Bill Reid on the twenty dollar bill. Bill Reid at the Vancouver airport. And my personal favourite, Bill Reid at the Canadian Embassy in Washington.

Many a Canadian white boy and girl has ventured forth into The Bush, however clumsily, trying to catch a whiff of the spirits. Going deep, getting back, oh yeah - getting real. Going back to the earth, because as the late, great Canadian poet Gwendolyn MacEwen once wrote: "No one invited us here."

But I wonder if any "Canadian" (and yes, in the context of this post I do feel the need to put that word in quotation marks) ever saw this 'real spirit' behind the surface of what we now call Canada better and more vibrantly than the recently, dearly departed Norval Morrisseau. His paintings were literally churning from the inside out. Skeletal and skeletons. Often called "x-ray". People within animals and animals within people and animals within animals within people covered in flowers riding on a fish, and all of it singing in the most glorious colour. And so out there and dangerous, freaky, hallucinogenic, tripping the bounds of sanity, and erotic. And inspired by sacred, ancient aboriginal myth.

"Why am I alive?"he said in a 1991 interview with The Toronto Star. "To heal you guys who are more screwed up than I am. How can I heal you? With color. These are the colors you dreamt about one night."

I've adored his work for years, before I ever knew his name or even knew who the heck he was. I bought my first Norval Morrisseau print a few years back at some poster sale in Hamilton and I remember riding the GO bus back into Toronto with the thing spread out on my lap for the whole trip, taking it in grinning ear to ear, just dazzled. And that was just a print. A poster. I tacked it to my kitchen wall and it made me happy every time I looked at it.

If anyone was the God Father of the Renaissance of Aboriginal Art and Culture that has ultimately made Canada a much humbler, more honest, better and yes more beautiful place, it had to be him. And at its heart the work was a profound movement for justice. That which cannot be denied.

Marc Chagall famously compared him to Picasso.

Keep your Group of Seven's, sure.

But Norval Morrisseau was the Best Canadian Painter Ever.

Reid Neufeld

-

Source: Global Health Nexus Blog /Global Health, Politics and Culture/

* Detailed information about the painting in this post unknown: "Flower of Life", © c. 1980s or 1990s Norval Morrisseau /Private Collection/

Lister Sinclair about Norval Morrisseau

2011-12-30T16:29:00.000-04:00

-
~ Reference for Morrisseau's collectors and investigators

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
---
--
--
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

"Nature's Balance", acrylic on kraft paper, 73"x48", © 1975 Norval Morrisseau /Click on image to Enlarge/~ PROVENANCE: Purchased directly from the artist by Lister Sinclair's wife Faith-
-

"Morrisseau, the artist, is a teller of tales. But tales such as these are only as powerful as the power of the person who tells them. Behind the visual imagery lies the power of his personal recital of a legend. Behind the legend lies the personal vision that explains everything. It may be difficult to distinguish Ojibway mythic elements from personal ones, or to separate Indian versions of Catholic iconography from Morrisseau's own set of emblems. He is at his most Indian when he offers an explanation of what he is doing. The purpose of doing it may have been to share with the world a heritage of the Great Ojibway that is proud and full of worth. The reason for doing it is very Indian. Where other artists might claim logic, tradition or authority as justification, Morrisseau always justifies himself by the most Indian of all explanations: the imperative of a personal, unique and private vision, the only real consistency which lies at the back of all his work. Everything, ultimately, is validated by Morrisseau's unanswerable claim to be responding to the demands of that personal, unique and private vision."

Lister Sinclair (1921-2006) - was a broadcaster, writer, actor, critic, producer, director, mathematician, birder, music buff and sports nut! In a career lasting more than 60 years, his erudition, wit, grace and passionate delight in learning reminded us all what public broadcasting at its best can be.

Source (text): THE ART OF NORVAL MORRISSEAU /Lister Sinclair, Jack Pollock, and Norval Morrisseau/; ISBN: 0-458-93820-3 /Toronto, Ontario: Methuen, 1979./

>>> Reference post:
- Blog Master's Pick of the Day (Part II).

*The genuine acrylic painting on kraft paper in this post: "Nature's Balance", 73"x48", © 1975 Norval Morrisseau; This painting is from the Lister Sinclair's Estate and was first publicly exhibited on page 114 of THE ART OF NORVAL MORRISSEAU [Lister Sinclair, Jack Pollock, and Norval Morrisseau; Toronto, Ontario: Methuen, 1979]

'It Came Upon a Midnight Clear' by Jana Mashonee

2011-12-30T16:23:00.002-04:00

-
~ Sung in Oneida
-
-
By JanaMashonee
-- /www.janamashonee.com /

"We natives believe in the following saying: "Our God is Native. The Great Deity of the Five Planes is so. We are neither for nor against, We speak not of Christ nor of God. We say, 'Let them be.' We follow the Spirit on its Inward Journey of Soul through attitudes and attentions. Remember we are all in a big School and the Inner Master teaches us Experience over many Lifetimes."

Norval Morrisseau

-

-

-

>>> James A. Simon's 'MISHMOUNTAINS ART EXHIBITION' Ends TOMORROW

2011-12-30T13:34:00.009-04:00

-
December 7th - 31st, 2011

US - CANADA Duty Free Shop Showroom
Surrey, British Columbia CANADA

"Mishmountain Collage", © James A. Simon MISHIBINIJIMA
~ Illustration by Spirit Walker
/Click on image to Enlarge/

MISHIBINIJIMA'S BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

James A. Simon MISHIBINIJIMA, one of Canada's foremost artist, has created a unique body of work over the past four decades and established a loyal following in North America and overseas. He was born February 12, 1954 in Wikwemikong, Manitoulin Island and grew up immersed in the legends of the Ojibwe people. As a youth he was known as James Alexander Simon, but now he is widely recognized as MISHIBINIJIMA, practitioner of many diverse styles and media. Over the years he has been awarded many First Place and Best of Show prize at international art exhibitions. Currently, he serves as a judge and mentor for many North American juried art shows. He also develops curriculum materials for First Nations schools and continues to amaze art collectors with the detail and intricacy of his canvases.

From the 1970s to the present, Mishibinijima has explored many of the sacred places around Manitoulin Island and originated the sought after MISHMOUNTAIN series among others.

His uplifting philosophy has struck a chord with people who are seeking solace in the midst of tragedy and meaning in a world that us often confusing and frightening. The themes depicted in his paintings have universal appeal and speak to all who yearn for spiritual sustenance. In his works he underscores the wisdom of the Grandfather teachings as a way to foster respect and peace. He also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and calls upon all nations to preserve our natural surroundings for the benefit of our children - always, he urges us not to take the Earth for granted.

Mishibinijima takes his role as an artist in society by courageously examining the difficult questions facing humanity. For example: he has meditated on the horrendous atrocities of the 9-11 attacks and the Holocaust on order to touch and articulate the ancient truths that have the power to save us all. For those who have yet to discover the metaphysical depths of Anishnabe culture. Mishibinijima offers timeless teachings and universal values to guide the people of the New Millennium into a positive future.

Source: M I S H I B I N I J I M A - International Contemporary Artist

/Text & images used with permission of the artist/

http://mishmountains.blogspot.com
http://mahdezewin.blogspot.com
http://mishangels.blogspot.com
http://mishbarks.blogspot.com

>>> Reference posts:

- James A. Simon's 'MISHMOUNTAINS ART EXHIBITION' Starts TODAY,
- James A. Simon's 'MISHMOUNTAINS ART EXHIBITION',
- James A. Simon's 'MISHMOUNTAINS ART EXHIBITION',
- Total Lunar Eclipse is happening TODAY,
- International Mountain Day 2011,
- 9/11 REMEMBERED,
- Touched by the Hand of God,
- Great Anishinaabe/Woodland Artists (Part XI)

-/Ref.: James A. Simon MISHIBINIJIMA; ARTIST STATEMENT/,

- When the Eagle Lands on the Moon... ,
- Anishnaabe Art, Meaning and Knowledge,
- Homage to Norval Morrisseau (Part V),

- The Art of James A. Simon MISHIBINIJIMA (Part I),
- The Art of James A. Simon MISHIBINIJIMA (Part II),
- The Art of James A. Simon MISHIBINIJIMA (Part III),
- The Four Nations on Earth &

One Native Life

2011-12-30T12:02:00.003-04:00

-
* This post was originally published on February 24th, 2009
-
Vanishing points

-

By Richard Wagamese,
'Indian Country Today' correspondent, recepient of the National Aboriginal Achievement Award for 2012

My people say there are seven hills to life. Each represents a stage, a period, a time frame where you gather experience and add it to the pack you carry across the years, across the breadth of the journey. Each hill is a vantage point for looking back. … but not everyone takes time for reflection.

There is a hill for youth and adolescence, a hill for adulthood and parenting. Then there are the hills of middle life, the teaching time, and on into the elder years, the giving back time. The final hill is the elevation of wisdom where you can look back and see the vast panorama of your living and come to know who you are by virtue of who you’ve been.

From each hill the view is different. From each hill the feeling changes. Each climb has its virtues, its struggles and triumphs; and the Ojibway say that it is only in the looking back that you discern the trail, identify the climb and rest contented in the journey.

I heard this first from Norval Morrisseau, the great interpreter of the Sacred Scrolls, the teaching scrolls of my people. At that time I was 32 and keen on learning all I could about the mysteries surrounding the aboriginal belief system. That part of my journey was breathtaking and the view was spectacular from the hill of my young adulthood.

I went to a lot of ceremonies then. It was the late ’80s, and there seemed to be a tide of people coming back to the teachings, to the elders and the ceremonies for rejuvenation, reconnection and reclamation. It was exhilarating. From the Sun Dance to the sweat lodge, to naming ceremonies, pipe ceremonies and the opening of Sacred Bundles, I found parts of myself I had never known.

I recall sitting on a ledge of rock in the mountains of Montana with a young Blackfoot elder in the summer of 1987. We were part of a traditional gathering called Return to the Buffalo. There’s a sacred meadow there where the people of many nations gathered in pre-settlement times to share teachings and Earth knowledge. Like then, we came from diverse cultures and the time we shared there was built entirely on the true tribal way of life.

The view from that ledge was amazing. There were mountains all around us that formed a perfect bowl, a circle that seemed to contain everything. Across the gap of valley was a turquoise lake, all green and blue at once. The trees were 100 shades of green, the mountain rock variegated and the sky a visceral blue that pulled your eye upward and away and back again. The view itself was ceremony.

I was crying. The experience of living the tribal way was so enormous that I had nothing in my life to compare it to. It was what I had been searching out for years. It was the most redemptive experience of my life.

We’d been separated into clans and given responsibility for certain parts of daily life. I was Beaver Clan and we were responsible for firewood and watching over the children. There were traditional teachings around these responsibilities and we’d gather under a teaching arbor to hear them. I came to understand community then, came to know what unity looked like, how harmony could feel.

Every night we sat in a round lodge and heard the elders share. We learned sacred songs on hand drums, were given stories to carry, asked questions and were taught according to traditional protocol. In every way, it was like living 1,000 years ago when the tribal and traditional lives of our people was unsullied by incursion. It was moving and fulfilling.

But it was time to go. We’d head out, scattered across the Four Directions to wherever our homes were and the likelihood of gathering again in this way was slim. For me it was heart breaking. I had just spent time living as close to the cultural bone of my people as possible, gleaned the truth of it, claimed it, and for the first time in my life come to know myself as a Native person, a Native man.

But it was time to go.

We sat on that ledge for a long time and I told that young teacher about my journey, how much this time had meant to me and how it hurt to see it end. He listened intently and when I finished he looked across that sweep of valley for a long time. Then he told me about the seven hills again.

Nothing is ever truly lost, he told me. Everything is born, carried and exists on energy, invisible and eternal. The highest form that energy takes is feeling because it is born in our hearts and spirits. The heart has no questions he said, and the head has no answers. It’s our heads that allow us to believe in finalities, endings, losses and vanishings, but nothing is ever truly lost.

The hills of life are resting spots. You only come to know that when you take the time for retrospection, for looking back. When you do, he said, you discover that everything you carry stays the same when you bear it in your heart, when it lives in you as feeling. We are in a state of constant relationship with everything, he said; and relationships never end, they merely change.

Take this place with you. Breathe it into you. Carry the feeling of it. Someday you’ll unwrap it again and see it like it was, perfectly, truly. On that day, he said, you’ll see that there are no vanishing points, that you can see forever from those hills and you will never be lonely.

I’ve forgotten that from time to time we all allow the sublime things in life to shrink. But when I remember, especially when times are tough or unclear, I realize again that the climb’s been worth it and the view is spectacular.

Source:
'Indian Country Today' - Indian Country Today is an award-winning multimedia publisher of news, information, and imagery relevant to the Indigenous people of the Americas. Our mission is to better the lives of Indigenous peoples by delivering accurate, relevant, and culturally sensitive content.

Reference:
- Richard Wagamese's Website @ www.richardwagamese.com

Blog Master's Note: The National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation has named newspaper columnist and author Richard Wagamese as one of the 15 outstanding Canadians who will receive a 2012 National Aboriginal Achievement Award. Wagamese has worked as a columnist, reporter and features writer for newspapers across Canada and has published a number of poetry books and novels as well as a memoir.

In 1991, he became the first Native Canadian to win a National Newspaper Award for column writing for a piece that appeared in the Calgary Herald.

Wagamese, along with the 14 other recipients, will be presented with the award in February 2012.

-
-

-

>>> Kateri Tekakwitha, ‘Lily of the Mohawks’ on brink of sainthood

2011-12-30T01:38:00.002-04:00

-
-- -
-

"Lily of the Mohawk", 72"x35", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau
/Click on image to enlarge/

~ Note the inscription on the front of the canvas (bottom right) which includes the title, date (year) and recognizable signature of the artist

>>> The above presented image of a Genuine Norval Morrisseau painting is currently part of the Collection of the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI); Formerly in the collection of R.E. Mansfield (1937-2007), donated to NMAI in 2003; Catalog number: 26/4095.

Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha (1656 - 1680)
"Lily of the Mohawks"-

Kateri Tekakwitha also known as Catherine Tekakwitha/Takwita, was born in 1656 in Gandahouhague, on the south bank of the Mohawk River, in a village called Ossernenon. The Mohawks were known as the fiercest of the "Five Nations" of the Iroquois. War was waged between the Mohawks and Algonquins. Kateri's mother, a christian Algonquin, was taken captive by a Mohawk warrior and soon they were married. They had a happy life together and eventually had a girl. They named her Tekakwitha, which means "she who moves forward". When she was four years old, a smallpox epidemic claimed the lives of her parents and baby brother. Their names are unknown. Kateri survived the disease but her eyesight was impaired. Her face was scarred and the disease left her weak the rest of her life. After five years of the sickness, the survivors of the village moved to the north bank of the river to begin a new life. Tekakwitha and her relatives moved into the Turtle Clan village called Gandaouague.

She was then raised by aunts and an uncle, the Chief of the Turtle Clan.

In 1667 the Jesuit missionaries Fremin, Bruyas, and Pierron spent three days in the lodge of Tekakwutga's uncle. They had accompanied the Mohawk delegation who had been to Quebec to conclude peace with the French. From the Blackrobes she received her first knowledge of Christianity.

In 1670 the Blackrobes established St. Peter's Mission in Caughnawaga now Fonda, NY.

In 1674, Fr. James de Lamberville arrived to take charge of the mission which included the Turtle Clan.

Tekakwitha met Father de Lamberville when he visited her home. She told him about her desire to become baptized. Despite opposition to Christianity from her tribe and particularly her uncle, she met with the Blackrobe in secret. She began to take religious instructions. On Easter Sunday, April 5, 1676, at the age of 20, she was baptized and given the name Kateri, Indian for Katherine. Her family wanted her to abandon her religion. She became the subject of increased contempt from the people of her village for her conversion, as well as her refusal to work on Sundays or to marry. She practice her religion unflinchingly in the face of almost unbearable opposition. Finally her uncle's lodge ceased to be a place of protection to her.

With the help of Christian Indians she fled her village. Two months later and about two hundred miles through woods, rivers and swamps, Kateri arrived at the Sault.

On Christmas Day, 1677, Kateri received her first Holy Communion. Here she lived in the cabin of a Christian Indian, Mary Teresa Tegaiaguenta. She and Kateri became friends. Both girls performed extraordinary penance. Kateri and her friend asked permission to start a religious community. The request was denied.

At Caughnawaga she contributed to the community's economy while engaging in great personal sacrifices. She also continued to keep her personal vow of chastity.

In 1678, Kateri was enrolled in the pious society called The Holy Family because of her extraordinary practices of all virtues.

Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha died on April 17, 1680, when she was 24 years of age. When she died, much to the amazement of those in attendance, all the disfiguring scars on her face miraculously disappeared.

Pope John Paul II beatified her in Rome on June 22, 1980, in the presence of hundreds of North American Indians. She is now known to us as Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha.

Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha died on April 17, 1680, when she was 24 years of age. In the past, we commemorated her Feast Day on the day of her death. April 17 often falls during the season of Lent or during Easter Week. When the Bishops of the United States gathered for their fall meeting in Washington, DC, in November 1982, they voted to change the day of observance of the Feast of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha to July 14th. The new feast day will enable the Church in the United States to celebrate and honor Blessed Kateri without the feast day overlapping with the season of Lent. We prayerfully await the day that our Holy Father proclaims her Saint Kateri.

Source: http://impurplehawk.com/kateri.html

-

>>> Reference information:
- ‘Lily of the Mohawks’ on brink of sainthood /www.thestar.com/
- Kateri Tekakwitha, Lily of the Mohawks to be canonized /http://aptn.ca/

* The painting in this post: "Lily of the Mohawk", 72"x35", © 1979 Norval Morrisseau; Currently part of the Collection of the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI); Formerly in the collection of R.E. Mansfield (1937-2007), donated to NMAI in 2003; Catalog number: 26/4095.