Butterflies

1977

First Nations, Haida, born 1946

Robert Davidson, a highly acclaimed Northwest Coast artist of Haida descent, hails from an illustrious family of artists. Although his earliest exposure was to the carving arts, his work spans a variety of media, both new and traditional. A recognized leader in the revival of Haida art and culture, Davidson has been honored with a number of awards, including the Order of Canada and the Order of British Columbia
In this work, the dominant colors are red and black, which are closely associated with Haida ancestral traditions. The subject has deep symbolic significance in Haida narrative - butterflies bear messages from the dead. This print utilizes the formline design that is prevalent in much Northwest Coast art. Butterflies was created at a time when Davidson was part of the Northwest Coast Print Guild, the group formed to establish high standards for printmaking from Native and First Nations artists.

Silkscreen print

12 9/16 x 22 7/16 in. (31.9 x 57 cm)

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Hatch

2013.19.3

Not currently on view

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