Michael Robinson is a first nation artist, poet and illustrator born in 1948. He graduated from the Sheridan School of Design in 1972. Michael Robinson resides on a farm near Peterborough, Ontario with his wife and four children. His summers are spent on Mannitoulin Island.
Michael's inspiration for his art is drawn from his spiritual beliefs. It is sometimes difficult to ascertain whether Michael Robinson's work and perception of life is pessimistic or hopeful, but he believes strongly in education.. Making people aware of the world around them is the only hope for the future. He sees a need for a global balance. "It is important that we see the Earth as a living entity, only then can we understand where we fit in".
Comments on urban experience:
The Native World is made up of two distinctive parts. One is Spiritual and the second is Community.
Unfortunately the definition of these two terms varies a great deal in how they are used and what they offer. Persons who live off reserve or in cities often find themselves at the fringes of the "community" or the sense of community, even if they
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"Persons who live off reserve or in cities often find themselves at the fringes of the community"
have chosen a spiritual path to follow. Within a "community" there is a security in being a "member", of being taken care of at the fringes, there is a privacy that allows a person to watch or observe the world without being watched or criticized. There is no
Art description:
My work continues to explore, discover and rediscover a lost history and an uncertain future. My point of reference is the Earth. It is through her eyes, her perception of reality that I watch the world go by. It is the Earth's clarity of reason that I have learned not to judge but work towards healing and hope. My work must stand on its own to allow the viewer or reader to choose his or her own response.
I have worked hard at removing "man" from the "center of all things" by putting him in his rightful place. Equally, among all living things.
My work represents man's responsibilities as an equal member and a steward to the medicine circle of life.
CONTACT/PURCHASE INFO:
R.R.1, Keene, Ontario
K0L 2G0
Tel: (705) 295-4491
Fax: (705) 295-4124
