Nancy Desjarlais
Nancy Desjarlais is of Cree and Metis ancestry. She spent her early years on the Fort McMurray First Nation Reserve #468. This close connection with nature established a touchstone that could be retrieved in her journey through life.
Like many First Nations children, she was removed from her home. She was put into a convent first, then foster homes. Consequently, she lost her language and cultural ties. Later, as she reconnected with her family roots, she was inspired to learn her culture through art and crafts.
“I was happiest when I was creating, whether it was sewing moccasins for my babies or painting a picture of a sunset.”
Nancy obtained her BFA from the University of Alberta in 1994. Familiarity with modern art materials evolved into a series of textural paintings in which she incorporated and moulded sand and paint. Petroglyphic and myth-inspired forms emerged alongside contemplative, meditative symbols. Her images of the sky and stars reveal a cosmic-earth connection rich in spiritual energy. As well, her relationship with the earth runs deep in her work. “I want to go beyond separateness. We are part of the earth and the universe. There is so much more than can be revealed through our senses. This is what compels and intrigues me.”
Nancy has won awards in the Peace Hills annual Native Arts Competition. She has taught art to children and adults. She has shown her work in B.C., the Northwest Territories and Alberta.
“Finding peace with my past, practicing daily gratitude, loving the earth, communicating a personal vision and travelling with a light heart are my main objectives right now, and art is my vehicle.”
Beautiful Stranger
Artist: Nancy Desjarlais
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size: 48 x 36 Inches
Code No.: ND127
Price: $4,250.00
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