The visual impact of the sculptural work by John Sabourin not only speaks volumes of his artistic gift but also the intrigue of Dene legend and storytelling. These visual representations of oral history allow Sabourin to impart the wisdom of his elders and ancestors through his own imagination and humour. With evocative imagery, the artist is able to translate these stories through stone resulting in artworks with a lasting impression.

 

Numerous works in this release talk of the influence of the wind and the animals harnessing its relentless energy. Raven’s playful meddling and Eagle’s migratory flights are some of the resonating outcomes of these elemental powers. Winds are also creative forces sweeping up snow or dust into rotating spirals leaving behind intricate patterns on the landscape. The forces of nature are also a binding factor between man, animal and environment – an important reference in both Dene legend and John Sabourin’s artwork.

 

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