Early Days: Indigenous Art from the McMichael

A landmark publication, "Early Days," showcases the diverse range of Indigenous art in the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, featuring the insights of over seventy cultural stakeholders. Illustrated extensively, the book traces the emergence and participation of Indigenous artists in the contemporary art world, making it the largest publication in the McMichael's history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Figure 1 Publishing

A groundbreaking publication that brings together over seventy diverse voices, showcasing the vast and diverse collection of Indigenous art held by the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. Guided by the esteemed Anishinaabe artist and scholar Bonnie Devine, Early Days delves into a myriad of insights from various Indigenous cultural stakeholders, providing a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of Indigenous art. From the techniques of goose hunting to the rich history of Northwest Coast mask making, from the emergence of the Woodland style of painting and printmaking to the challenges of art-making in the Arctic, and from the latest developments in contemporary art by Indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island, this publication offers a comprehensive exploration of the field.

Beautifully illustrated, Early Days not only tells the story of a renowned collection but also traces the emergence and growing participation of numerous Indigenous artists in the contemporary art world. As the largest publication in the history of the McMichael, it serves as a significant recognition of the importance of Indigenous art and ways of knowing in the global art history.

Contributors to this remarkable publication include renowned artists Barry Ace, Pierre Aupilardjuk, Leland Bell, Dempsey Bob, Violet Chum, Hannah Claus, Dana Claxton, Taa.uu ‘Tuuwans Nika Collison, Alan Ojiig Corbiere, Marcia Crosby, Ruth Cuthand, Mique l Dangeli, Sarah Florence Davidson, Robert Davidson, Blake Debassige, Bonnie Devine, Tarralik Duffy, Norma Dunning, David Garneau, John Geoghegan, Janice Grey, Haay uups (Ron Hamilton), Jim Hart, Emma Hassencahl-Perley, Emily Henderson, Lynn Hill, Richard William Hill, Maria Hupfield, Heather Igoliorte, Luis Jacob, Gayle Uyagaqi Kabloona, William Kingfisher, Jessica Kotierk, Robin Laurence, Duane Linklater, Ange Loft, Tanya Lukin Linklater, Jean Marshal, Michael Massie, Kaitlin McCormick, Gerald McMaster, Ossie Michelin, Sarah Milroy, Antoine Mountain, Nadia Myre, Wanda Nanibush, Jeneen Frei Njootli, Ruth B.

In conclusion, Early Days is a groundbreaking publication that offers a profound insight into the rich and diverse world of Indigenous art. Through the collective wisdom and expertise of its contributors, this book serves as a vital acknowledgment of the place of Indigenous art and ways of knowing in global art history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the depth and significance of this artistic tradition.

Dimension: 279 x 254 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781773272337