Morrisseau exhibits latest works in Edmonton until May 2

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Acclaimed as the father of contemporary Canadian Native art, the works of Ojibway Indian artist Norval Morrisseau are currently being featured as a one man show in Edmonton until May 2.

For Morrisseau who was bestowed the Order of Canada for his contributions to the art scene, this is his third appearance within 16 months in Edmonton at the Manulife Building. The exhibition is being jointly sponsored by Galal Helmy of EA Studio in Jasper and Canadian-born actor John Vernon and his wife, Nancy.

Previous exhibits by Morrisseau were in December of 1986 and December of 1985. The 1986 showing was something of a disappointment due to a last minute change of location which was unknown to many of the public.

Morrisseau was a recent exhibitor at The Celebration of Contemporary Canadian Native Art Exhibition in Los Angeles. That show, co-sponsored by the Canadian Consul-General and John Vernon, winds down on April 26 at the Southwest Museum.

While in California, Morrisseau also held a one man show at La Casa de la Raza in Santa Barbara.

Co-sponsor John Vernon had nothing but praise for the level of the art show in Los Angeles. "Interest is just terrific it was an enormous success," he said.

Vernon extended his personal thanks to Peace Hills Trust, Samson Indian Band and Air Canada for their generosity in helping the exhibition.

Actor Vernon who has been extremely supportive of Canadian Native art and artists also read from a glowing newspaper article in Santa Barbara, California which described Morrisseau's art as "vivid paintings surge with power reminiscent of stained glass and style. His abstract and clearly recognizable images are linked by a strong but fluid black line which encapsulates inner vortices of energy and throws form into high relief against his contrasting of contemporary backgrounds"

Vernon drew attention to what he feels is "another level" of art by Morrisseau, a level which demonstrates growth in the artist.

A special guest at the opening was Alberta's Minister of Transportation and Utilities Allen "Boomer" Adair who welcomed Vernon and referred to the exhibition as, "a very, very special kind of art."

A new touch has been added to the current exhibition. Some of Morrisseau's works are on paper, canvas and leather ? "many never before exhibited in Canada" says the sponsors.

Morrisseau, known for his interests in the spirit world, cosmic forces and soul travel continues to stir art fanciers with his bold color, design and style which depicts legendary life forms. It is like stepping into another world, that of the Ancient Ones. Magic, religion and ceremony leap from his canvasses to thrust one into a totally new plane of the sacred and the spiritual.

To experience the works of this master artist is akin to one's discovery of a new and wonderful food. If one has not had the pleasure of doing so before, the opportunity to taste of Morrisseau's art is there to be had.

The exhibition and sale of Morrisseau's art is featured until May 2 on the second floor of the Manulife Building at 10180 ? 101 Street in Edmonton.