"Born in Etobicoke, Ontario, I developed a strong connection to Norval Morrisseau's Woodlands style from an early age. My in-depth study of his work began around the age of 15. Soon after, a return to my Northern Ontario roots led to what I believe was a meeting orchestrated by the Creator, bringing me together with Norval and some of his close family. At 17, I had the opportunity to spend time with Norval himself. He shared his insights on art, explaining how colours possess the power to heal. He also spoke of his visionary travels to the house of invention, where in his dreams, he consistently saw two of his pieces rendered in black and white. Upon waking, these images would remain vivid. He explained that it was within this dreamlike realm that he was able to infuse those pieces with colour.
I was incredibly inspired by him during that time (though my perception shifted in 2022 upon learning information that tarnished his image, forever altering how I view him and his art). This realization, however, opened my eyes to the many other remarkable Woodland artists worthy of admiration. Daphne Odjig, Jay Bell Redbird, Mark Anthony Jacobson, Jackson Beardy, and Roy Thomas are just a few examples of individuals who embraced the Woodland style with integrity, creating some of the most breathtaking works I have ever encountered. After relocating to North Vancouver in 1991, my connection to Woodland art remained strong despite the passage of years. Around 2003, Norval's nephew suggested that I, too, was destined to paint in this captivating style. He remarked, "Jason, I can see you were meant to be an artist, and I believe one day you will surpass me in this." I was deeply honoured by his words, though I responded with laughter, unsure of my artistic capabilities. That was three decades ago.
A few years later, Norval appeared to me in two very powerful dreams. In these visions, he stood behind me as I painted, offering direction and guidance to both his nephew and myself. Upon waking from these profound experiences, I knew in my heart that it was time to pick up the paint brush once more. Ever since, I have been painting with beautiful, vibrant colours in the style that was imparted to me. My ongoing inspiration and fervent desire are to bring healing and joy through colourful images, while also passing on the teachings and stories that have been shared with me."
