Abstraction and Myth

Additional Information

Nimosômipan II 2002, oil, acrylic, latex on canvas

Artist Neal McLeod's paintings convey old stories in a contemporary context. Based around the figure of the Wîhtikow, usually understood narrowly as a being that consumes other humans, McLeod presents a series of paintings focusing on this Cree term for consumption and greed. Therefore these paintings become metaphoric of the colonial hunger of the Europeans and the resulting difficult experiences felt by Aboriginal peoples. In Cree culture Wîhtikow is also a symbol for the power of ambiguity, the loss of know-ledge, and is associated with the contrary principle Wîhtikôhkân; represented by the narration of the Grandfather. The Grandfather, or Nimosômipan whose storytelling provides for cultural continuity and connection, becomes the balancing and restorative force in these paintings. Ambiguity and clarity thus co-exist inseparably in this cyclical worldview and are each a necessary part of the other. Neal McLeod is a Cree painter, writer, filmmaker and curator from James Smith First Nation. He obtained his Masters of Arts in Philosophy in 1996 from the University of Saskatchewan and is currently working towards his Ph.D and teaching at the University of Regina, Saskatchewan Indian Federated College. His writings, films and paintings have been well received both locally and abroad.