Norval Morrisseau
Man Changing into Thunderbird
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- $25.99
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- $25.99
Publisher Description
Norval Morrisseau (1932–2007), Ojibway shaman-artist, drew his first sketches at age six in the sand on the shores of Lake Nipigon. By the end of his tumultuous life, the prolific self-taught artist was sought by collectors and imitated by forgers. Critics, art historians and curators alike consider him one of the most innovative artists of the twentieth century. Norval Morrisseau: Man Changing Into Thunderbird is an innovative and rich biography of this charismatic and troubled figure. Drawing upon years of extensive research, including interviews with Morrisseau himself, Armand Ruffo evokes the artist’s life from childhood to death, in all its vivid triumphs and tragedies. Ruffo draws upon his own Ojibway heritage and experiences to provide insight into Morrisseau’s life and iconography from an Ojibway perspective. Captivating and readable, this is a brilliantly creative evocation of the art and life of Norval Morrisseau, a life indelibly tied to art.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Poet Ruffo (At Geronimo's Grave) brings the life and legend of Canadian aboriginal artist Norval Morrisseau, also known as Copper Thunderbird, into focus through a sensitive lens. He uses "Anishinaabe epistemology" to reveal the shaman-artist, a preserver of Ojibwe culture. Morrisseau learned aboriginal oral traditions from his grandfather, and that became the basis for his art and an ever-renewing source of personal growth. Morrisseau continued to evolve through a series of tensions, working on birch scrolls and murals, delving into Catholic guilt and Eckankar spirituality. Like a force of nature, Morrisseau independently pursued his inspiration whatever the cost and there were costs. He undermined the market for his work by selling at the point of need, and was frequently driven by his addictions. His family suffered and he often felt tormented. Ruffo's treatment shows the reader how Morrisseau, like his paintings, is colorful and can be seen in so many contradictory lights recipient of the Order of Canada and deserter of his family; profligate spender and eschewer of materialism. Morriseau is truly a legendary figure, and Ruffo has found the right balance for telling his very human story. Photos.
