Miigiwewin is an Ansihinaabe word meaning “gift”, “giving things away”, or “voluntary offering”. Sherry Litman, Dr. Jerry Litman’s daughter donated his art collection in 2024, to the Muse: Douglas Family Art Centre. The story behind how he acquired these paintings is impactful. Dr. Litman was a dentist that visited lake of the woods in 1955 to cover a summer dental leave. He fell in love with the community and Lake of the Woods, and decided to stay. And then, also found love with his wife, Reva Standil. He treated people with kindness, and began to bring dental services to communities that had none, travelling far to Hudson Bay and Northwest territories. Without asking for money, Dr. Litman began receiving gifts through woodland artwork across Northwestern Ontario. Indigenous communities gave him art from Indigenous artists, and in return he started collecting artwork by artists in the region as well.
Among these pieces, some of the artists in his art collection include: Norval Morrisseau and Joshim and Goyce Kakegamic from the 1970s-1980s, when their art was reshaping Canadian art. Morrisseau also founded the Professional Native Indian Artists Incorporation (PNIAI), formed in 1963. One of Canada’s most significant early artist alliances, PNIAI challenged cultural, social, and political stigmas, promoted Indigenous art in major galleries, mentored young artists, and helped develop marketing networks and funding support.
These artworks are made in the woodland style of painting, and the Muse worked with elders to help interpret the colours, shapes, and meaning behind these paintings. Enjoy the rich colours and detail of these pieces from July 26 to September 26.