Looking To Spring 

Norval Morrisseau made this painting, Looking to Spring, using acrylic and ink on canvas. In this work, Morrisseau continues his exploration of Ojibwe spirituality and his role as a storyteller within his community. Looking to Spring is visually striking, made in a style Morrisseau developed from the ancient traditions and pictographic rock paintings of his ancestors. Born in Canada in 1931, his work broke ground by depicting traditional stories previously only shared orally, challenging cultural norms and the impact of colonization on indigenous culture. Note the vibrant colors and the way the artist uses thick black lines to define shapes, a technique that echoes stained glass. This style, combined with the subject matter, creates a powerful visual language. Understanding Morrisseau's art requires delving into the history of the Ojibwe people, their spiritual beliefs, and the societal shifts they experienced. By studying indigenous oral histories, museum collections, and the artist's biography, we gain deeper insights into the social and cultural context of this work. The image becomes more than just paint on canvas; it is a window into a world of meaning, resilience, and cultural reclamation.