Adrian Stimson: Maanipokaa’iini is published in association with the first-ever survey of the work of the Siksika Nation artist Adrian Stimson, on view at Remai Modern from April 2 to September 5, 2022. This book provides critical insight into the artist’s methodological approach across a diverse range of media. Tarah Hogue’s curatorial essay considers the grounding of Stimson’s practice in the energetic lifeworld of the Siksikaitsitapi from his early paintings to the new work created for the exhibition. Adrian Stimson and Dr. Ernie Walker’s dynamic conversation explores their shared affinity for bison at the intersection of art and science. Erin Sutherland’s essay traces Stimson’s methodology of “start with a tickle, give a slap, then finish with a hug” across multiple performances. Tess Allas and Joseph Pugliese’s text speaks to Stimson’s powerful visual and material testimony on the impacts of the residential school system. Designed by Sébastien Aubin and with a welcome from Wanuskewin Elder Mary Lee, the publication reflects Stimson’s commitment to the transformational capacities of Indigenous knowledge and artistic practice.
ADRIAN STIMSON (b. 1964) is a member of the Siksika (Blackfoot) Nation in southern Alberta. Across installation, painting, photography, video, performance and public art, Stimson’s works re-signify colonial history using both humour and counter-memory. Stimson has exhibited widely across Canada and internationally. He has a BFA with distinction from the Alberta College of Art and Design and an MFA from the University of Saskatchewan. Stimson participated in the Canadian Forces Artist Program, which sent him to Afghanistan. Stimson received a Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts in 2018 and a REVEAL Indigenous Arts Award from the Hnatyshyn Foundation in 2017. He was also awarded the Blackfoot Visual Arts Award in 2009, the Alberta Centennial Medal in 2005 and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2003. His work is held in public and private collections including The British Museum, London; Campbelltown Arts Centre; Montreal Museum of Fine Arts; Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto; MacKenzie Art Gallery, Regina and Remai Modern, Saskatoon, among others.