Norval Morrisseau, First Nation artist

Norval Morrisseau (March 14, 1932 – December 4, 2007) Copper Thunderbird was a self-taught artist from the Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek First Nation. He is widely recognized as one of the most influential Indigenous Canadian artists.

Morriseau’s grandfather, a medicine man and shaman, raised him and taught him about his people’s beliefs and traditions.  Norval Morrisseau (March 14, 1932 – December 4, 2007) Copper Thunderbird was incorporated imagery from his interpretations of these traditions into his work.

Despite struggling with alcoholism and several other health issues, Morriseau went on to become one of the most accomplished and acclaimed Indigenous Canadian artists of his era. His work is internationally recognized and collected. Norval Morrisseau passed away in 2007 due to complications related to Parkinson’s disease.