Big Bear Dreams

"Big Bear Dreams"

As a historical figure Big Bear is absolutely one of my favourite! My idea with this painting is to discuss the stress and worry that he had when he saw the loss of his land and his way of life disappearing. I urge you all to look up him up on google for more historical information. I totally enjoyed making this piece and I recall really enjoying the way the brush applied the paint to the surface of the canvas; there is something comforting about the dry-brush technique that I use all the time....

About Fred

Frederick R McDonald is an international, award-winning artist - a painter, poet and photographer - and a member of the Fort McKay First Nation. Fred was born in Fort McMurray and raised in the bush along the Athabasca River, brought up in the traditional hunting and trapping lifestyle of his parents.

Although he has travelled far and wide, Fred’s heart is still with his community and he continues to be an active member of the Fort McKay band. He keeps himself grounded through his family; his children and his grandchildren are his inspiration for everything he does and they are ultimately his greatest creation.

In addition to his mastery of painting, Fred is an accomplished intellectual, with multiple degrees and awards to his name.

Bachelor's of Fine Art, University of Calgary
The Alberta Heritage Scholarship Fund, 2001 Edmonton, Alberta
Regional Aboriginal Recognition Award, Wood Buffalo
Global Public Voices Fellow, Cornell University
Masters of Fine Art, University of Calgary

Big Bear Dreams

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