Behind the Front Door Volume 3, October, 2013. | Page 38

AN ARTISTIC NARRATION:

As a young boy he grew up on an isolated island doodling Indian princesses. With no access to formal education or training in the arts William would became a self-taught artist on a lifelong journey. He was inspired by the traditional teachings of creation, Mother Earth, the Spirit World, the beauty of nature that surrounded him and the stories he heard. Through the encouragement of his sisters, mother and the guidance of high school teachers Mr. Lalonde and Fran Wraith his art became a lifelong ambition.

Equipped with the encouragement of family members and peers he left his Beausoleil First Nation community and became a well- known Ojibwa Artist. At workshops and events William often shares the knowledge that learning is a lifelong journey.

In 1979 after creating an extensive amount of arts and crafts William left his small community on Christian Island with an ambition to travel and sell his work. For months he travelled and sold extensively while living out of his van and attending Pow Wows where Museum Curators frequently acquired his traditional works of art. Stores and Friendship Centres across Canada, throughout the United States and into Mexico purchased his work. He returned to Canada to make his home in Mission British Columbia and established Monague Native Crafts Ltd. The business bestowed with his name is now one of Canada's leading global producers and suppliers of native products.

He has remained dedicated to his work while inspiring and helping other aspiring artists. He donates his time and artwork to many worthwhile causes, often celebrating women’s strength. Artwork is donated and auctioned yearly in support of the fight to end violence against women. He is currently completing panels of art marking the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Office at Queen’s University. “Mystical Village” was chosen for the 2014 Edition Transcendence for the B.C. Multifaith Calendar. Helping others and supporting worthwhile causes is important to him; he has never forgotten those that supported and recognized his talent.

William’s art can be viewed on his website www.williammonaguenativeart.com and is commissioned and acquired by collectors, businesses, corporations and organizations nationally and internationally throughout the world. He has received many awards of recognition throughout his career including a Lifetime Achievment Award and after 30 years of painting continues to find inspiration on his artistic journey.

“Sharing Anishnabek Culture through the Spirit of Color”