Manitoba Aboriginal Artsit Archive

Image Loading... An Aboriginal from Lac Broechet, Victor began painting at a very young age. Later, as he began to develop his skills as an artist, he was influenced by the traditional ways of life and the stories of the Aboriginal elders. These teachings were a great influence for Victor not only in developing himself as an artist but to develop his spiritual sense.

Through his works he expresses traditional lifestyles, beliefs and teachings of the Aboriginal people. He expresses how the Aboriginal people are interconnected with the land and animals. Through his paintings Victor tells the stories learned from his elders. The elders have told Victor that the Aboriginal people have not lost their culture, it is still within them and can be practiced.

VISION

Vision of Native American way of life and the Native American church. Inspired by a story told by and elder this piece represents the connection of mother earth with the Universe. It displays the water drum, sacred fire, eagle, water bird, tee-pee and the rope man. The significance of the water drum in Native American culture is essential to the existence of the people. The water drum is alive with a spirit as represented by the water within. The prayers of the people are delivered to the creator by the eagle. The water bird is the protector of the Universe. Water is life -- without water there would be no life. The rope man in the centre of the work is conducting a prayer service and is responsible for everything that sits on the earth. He is looking after the fire, following the grandfather.

THY ROD AND THY STAFF
THEY COMFORT ME

Victor articulates the story of a medicine man in this particular piece. When the world was young the spirit blew the eagle bone whistle. The spirit told the animals that whoever comes first will be given the power, the power to give birth. The deer was the first one there and drank the water near the spirit. The deer brought back down to earth the power to give birth. The deer is very sacred in Aboriginal culture. Its hide is used for sacred drums.

The staff is connected to the Universe through the rod and everlasting life. Our grandfather dances in the Northern Lights.

Medicine within the rod comforts me. The rod and staff represents the bow and arrow. It is in the people's hand and is facing the deer. This represents the spiritual significance and respect that the people have toward the deer. The people hunt the deer for medicine and they respect the creator's creation.

"The Seed Has Been Planted and Our Generation of the Aboriginal People Continues."

This painting was made using acrylic and oil paint. Victor stated that sometimes he does like to use the combination of both.

This painting tells a story of the Aboriginal people. In this painting the lady holding a child symbolizes the life giver. Behind her stands a water bird. The water bird represents "The Spirit of Life within the Water." Victor said that the idea of the picture is that, "The spirit of life still remains here within the Aboriginal people". Victor, who attends traditional ceremonies, said that the majority of his work comes from what he learns while in attendance.

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