The artwork “Teaching Grandson” by Norval Morrisseau, belonging to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement, is a genre painting that exudes vibrant expression. It encapsulates a narrative through its rich, simplified forms and vivid colors.
In this artwork, Morrisseau provides an evocative depiction of a generational teaching moment, illustrated through prominent symbolic figures. At the top of the piece, a figure adorned with a traditional headdress is portrayed with uplifted, observing eyes, clutching a branch laden with fruits, possibly signifying wisdom or knowledge. The lower part of the artwork features a child gazing upwards at the elder figure, emphasizing an inherent connection and the flow of learning. The background bursts with a lively yellow, accentuating the outlined ethereal blue, red, violet, and green hues of the central figures and surrounding symbols, manifesting a seamless blend of cultural heritage and nativity.
