John Eric Laford

Untitled

50 x 100 inches, Acrylic on canvas

Date of Completion: August 15, 1980

This monumental work by celebrated Anishinaabe artist John Eric Laford (1954–2021) stands as a masterful exemplar of Woodland art. Measuring an impressive 50 by 100 inches, the canvas is a vivid testament to Laford’s extraordinary command of color, form, and symbolic storytelling.

Set against a luminous white field, the composition pulses with energy through a palette of yellows, blues, oranges, reds, purples, and earthy browns, anchored by bold black linework that navigates the eye across a rich, layered narrative. Seventeen creatures, depicted through their expressive eyes, inhabit the space—eagles, fish, and the commanding Thunderbird on the far left, a potent emblem of wisdom, protection, and guidance.

At the heart of the piece, two Shaman figures traverse an implied journey: one gazing forward, the other glancing back, evoking movement through a canoe-like passage without depicting a vessel, enhancing the work’s abstract and contemplative depth. The Thunderbird dominates the left side, a symbol of vision and leadership, while the fish and other creatures convey abundance, resilience, and interconnectedness, hallmarks of Laford’s spiritual vision.

Through the dynamic interplay of vivid color, intricate linework, and potent symbolism, Laford channels the timeless storytelling traditions of the Anishinaabe people, inviting the viewer into a profound visual and spiritual experience. Boldly signed “LAFORD Aug 15 1980,” this monumental canvas is not only one of Laford’s largest works but also a defining masterpiece that encapsulates his enduring artistic legacy and cultural heritage.

Price: Upon request