Morrisseau Masterwork

On view for the first time in 40 years, this large-scale mural by Ojibway artist Norval Morrisseau (b. 1934 – d. 2007) measures 22 feet long by 9.4 feet high, filling the entire gallery wall. The painting depicts a captivating density of human and animal figures in Woodland Style, including adults and children, animals, birds, and spiritual beings among natural elements. The monumental scene can be interpreted as people and beings gathering in a sacred space.

Beyond the arresting visual experience, this major work is an entryway into a lesser-known period in the artist’s life, from 1985-1987, when it is said he created “close to 400 works” working in a studio above Maligne Canyon Tea House in Jasper, Alberta (which burned down in the Jasper wildfire in 2025). As is characteristic of Morrisseau, this period of his professional life was marked by many people in the artist’s orbit, including friends, patrons, and art dealers such as Galal Helmy, the founder of commercial art gallery EA Studios (Jasper) Ltd. and current owner of the work.

Public Unveiling: Morrisseau Masterwork

Friday, September 18

12:00 pm

Thunder Bay Art Gallery

Join us for the public unveiling of a large-scale painting by Ojibway artist Norval Morrisseau on view for the first time in 40 years. This masterwork is 22 feet long by 9.4 feet high – longer than an SUV – and features a myriad of human, animal, and spiritual beings gathering in a Woodland-style scene. Created between 1985 and 1987 in Jasper, Alberta, this major work acts as a new entryway into a lesser-known period in the artist’s life and work.