Norval Morrisseau painting at the Senate of Canada

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"Circle of Four" /Acrylic on canvas, 1978/

Norval Morrisseau, whose Ojibway name is Osa’wa Piko’pinesi or “Copper Thunderbird,” is one of Canada’s best-known Aboriginal painters. Regarded as a cultural trailblazer, his work awoke Canadians to the importance of Aboriginal painting. Following his example, other Aboriginal artists began exploring their unique art forms. Morrisseau is recognized as the father of the “Woodland” school. Morrisseau defines himself as a shaman - “one who knows” - an interpreter of the mythology and rituals of his people.

His work "Circle of Four" refers to the circle as a symbol of the world and its forces. The number four is sacred for Aboriginal peoples, recalling the four ages in life, the four directions and the four seasons. It also evokes the intimate union among the inseparable elements of the harmonious universe - water, air, earth and fire - of which Aboriginal peoples are the servants and guardians.

Source: The Parliament of Canada Web Site; Painting located at the Senate
/The painting in this posting is an authentic work of © Norval Morrisseau/