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Untitled

This untitled painting by Elvis Antoine of Sioux Valley Dakota Nation depicts the outline of a bear above a tree-lined ridge. Four bear paw prints, an eagle, a star and a full moon adorn a saturated red and orange sky.

Born in Brandon, Manitoba in 1957, the artist began creating art at a young age and studied at the University of Manitoba. He developed a deep appreciation for the ways of life on the plains, and his works express that love of the land and his spiritual connection to the natural environment.

The artist’s Dakota name was Sunkė Sapa Hdeṡhka, which translates to “Black Spotted Horse” — a figure he often included in his distinctive paintings. His works can be found in private and corporate collections, and he also painted murals across Manitoba.

The prolific First Nations painter passed away in 2023. This painting was generously donated to the Senate of Canada the same year by Naomi and Dr. Jon Gerrard.

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