Blake Debassige, Ojibwa
Born in West Bay , Ontario , in 1956, Mr. Debassige is a member of the “second generation” of Ojibwa artists influenced by Norval Morrisseau. These artists are often referred to as the “ Woodlands School ,” although Mr. Debassige himself objects to the term. In his artwork, Mr. Debassige has broadened the stylistic and thematic range of this group. Mr. Debassige's paintings and graphics frequently investigate traditional Anichabeck teachings about the nature of cosmic order, the cycles of the seasons and the interdependence of animal, plant, and human life, and the common principles at work in the world's great spiritual systems. He frequently relates these themes to highly contemporary problems such as the destruction of the environment, the alienation of Native youth, and family breakdown.