This painting was inspired by both the Group of Seven (and Tom Thomson) and the so-called Indian Group of Seven which was a group of seven native artists who, in 1973, gave birth to the Professional National Indian Artists Incorporation: Norval Morrisseau, Jackson Beardy, Alex Janvier, Eddy Cobiness , Carl Ray, Joseph Sanchez and Daphne Odjig (who were considered the founders of the Woodland style of Native art). The typical Canadian landscape was based on the original Group of Seven….which was combined with a Woodland style depiction of an otter.
It has been said Otter symbolizes new life and hopefully I did capture that spirit in this mixed-style painting, blending realism and traditional. Niigig is also seen as an important mediator between the land and the water, the physical world and the spirit world, and again I hoped that I depicted him as belonging in all four of those environments.
W' DAE B' WAE CREATIVE ART 
I just stumbled upon your work and I am so in love with your paintings. I hope to see your work at one of the art shows this year. Can I ask, how much is the turquoise grizzly with the paw print? The one featured at the top of the page? Not sure if it’s for sale. So wonderful…all of your work.
Miigwech….your wood work looks great too. The turquoise bear with the paw print is sold….but I could do another one like that if you wanted. Let me know if you do.
Hi Mike,
Could you let me know the price? Once the shows start this year and I’m making some money, I should be able to afford it. Can you let me know?
Thanks so much,
Shelly
Shelly, Not sure if you mean turquoise bear or the painting of the otter mentioned in the post. The painting of the otter is still available….it was recently part of a show at Georgina Art Centre and Gallery….my asking price is $900….
A painting similar to the previous turquoise bear image could be done….price would depend on size of canvas….for example, an 8″ X 10″ would be $300.