Gabe 2005

Norval Morrisseau created "Gabe" using acrylic on canvas, materials that facilitate bold color and sharp lines. Morrisseau’s artistic practice involved a blend of traditional knowledge and contemporary techniques. A self-taught artist, he developed a signature style known as Woodland School. This style synthesizes elements of Indigenous art and modernism. His painting techniques, with flat planes of color and strong outlines, create a visual language deeply rooted in his cultural background. The work process involves layering acrylic paints to achieve vibrant colors and defined shapes. The flat, graphic style emphasizes the symbolic content of the images rather than illusionistic depth. This approach reflects a departure from Western art conventions. It prioritizes cultural expression. Morrisseau’s use of readily available materials connects his art to broader issues of cultural identity. Through close attention to materials, making, and context, we come to fully appreciate the work's meaning, transcending traditional boundaries between fine art and craft.