Meeting John Laford Urban Native Artist
I first met John Laford three years ago in the Station Mall in Sault Ste Marie Ontario where he was part of a group of artists showing their work in a space provided by the Arts Council of Sault Ste Marie for the Christmas season. I bought some of his art that year which I gave to my children for Christmas presents.
John and I reconnected again this year (November 2011) in the Station Mall where I was having my yearly art and music show.
I invited him to paint some of my wood furniture and he did so painting the story of "Maple Sugar Time On Manitoulin Island" with his aunts, uncle and grandparents. He also painted a beautiful scene "On The Trapline" on a hand made cedar table.
John painted almost everyday while I was in the Soo and I ended up with a number of his wonderful canvas and furniture paintings. All are displayed on this page.
John told me some great stories about the early days of his painting career which spans over forty years. On two occasions he was part of an art show with the great Canadian Shaman painter Norval Morrisseau.
Laford's work encompasses his native spirituality. Images of birds, animals and human beings protecting the sacred places where powerful manitous exist and continue to give life, control the elements and protect Mother Earth.
I'm happy to play a small part on John's journey and hope you enjoy his beautiful art.
Don Charbonneau
Please note this page is still under construction. More of John's work will be added in the following weeks. All the of the art pieces on this page are still available to purchase. Please use email form below for pricing inquiry.
updated January 12/2012
