The Fish (c. 1960) Norval Morrisseau

(Untitled) The Fish

Norval Morrisseau

oil on moose hide stretched on willow, c.1957-1963, 13" x 30"

“I saw a sense of purpose, a direction, and an inner strength. Looking at it from a painting point of view, I found an incredible sense of design, a power of imagery, and a uniqueness. You know, there is a sense of the unique. Obviously, he is one of the few people who have interpreted the legends and myths. But, his images of those demigods, the animal world, the Merman - things of this type were unique to himself, I felt. I felt that I had not seen this before."

Jack Pollock

1974

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Mythical Animals (c. 1960s ) Norval Morrisseau

Mythical Animals

Norval Morrisseau

28” x 19”, acrylic on paper

Untitled

Norval Morrisseau

15” x 21”, acrylic on paper

Untitled

Norval Morrisseau

10"x16"

Untitled

Norval Morrisseau

10"x16"

Power Giver

Norval Morrisseau

1965

Collection of the Glenbow Museum

The studies displayed above bear witness to Morrisseau fundamentals. i.e decisive line, comrehensive balance and vision. All five paintings are simple sketches. The first four images were painted with a heavier brush than the 1965 "Power Giver" sketch which explores a recurring Morrisseau theme.

The first two pieces were sold for thousands of dollars each by Gallery Gevik in Toronto; a primary art dealer of Daphne Odjig's work. I introduced Norval to Philip Gevik in the mid 1980s. Philip bought a few paintings and took us out for Armenian food.

The second two were listed as serigraphs and went for $200 each at Hodgins Auctions.

Stardreamer

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