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To write the biography of Daphne Odjig is a long, a daunting and a complicated process. Long because it started in 1919 and is not finished yet and complicated merely because it will take me time to unravel the facts that I need to present here to make
you aware of the importance of this artist to Canada, indeed the world. But the job of writing her biography is more daunting than long or complicated. Daphne is more that a First Nations artist and more than a Canadian artist, she is in every sense of
the word a world artist. She was able to do portraits and landscapes like the masters, able to do cubist works like Picasso, and blend the styles of Native and White worlds into a vibrant and expressive imagery that is uniquely hers. To fully
understand Daphne and to see the breadth of her work, one should seek out books and museum collections. It is truly and honour to meet her and to see her work. Daphne is wonderfully vibrant and passionate storyteller and one who tries to help others
whenever she sees an opportunity. She has been brave enough to attempt the largest canvas done in Canada (The Indian In Transition 8' x 27') and has travelled to Jerusalem to paint a series of paintings on commission. She seems to be able to do it
all.
Daphne is 81 years old in September, 2001 and she has not painted for a few years. She has had the flu from time to time and has had the irritations of growing older illustrated to her but she says that when she feels better she will paint
again. We look forward with enthusiasm to that day.
We have recently received three pieces from a private collection that we can offer for sale but we caution you that these originals are very hard to find and do not last long. We urge you to seek
out her work and to read her books to get an insight into the life and character of this wonderful artist.
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