Kris Nahrgang, Releasing the Spirit in the Stone
Some people tell stories through words written, spoken or sung; others convey their message through instrumental music or dance. Still others use visual arts – painting, photography, clay or metalwork to name a few. Indigenous artist Kris Nahrgang is a storyteller in stone. It is said that he seeks to “bring forth the spirit of the stone to release its beauty as a treasure that will endure and last for eternity”.
Nahrgang began his journey as an artist in 1989, turning professional in 1991. When asked about his objective as an artist he replies simply, “to be a storyteller.” He started out working with wood, but says, “the complexities of the medium interfere with the creative process. When you must stop to consider, for example, the change of direction of the grain of the wood you’re working with, it changes the outcome of the piece.”
Switching to stone changed everything for the Mississauga Ojibway artist. “There’s something about the stone that is very grounding and soothing. Nothing interferes with the process, and I can free my mind to discover what story the stone is telling me, and how best to release it.”
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He works in Brazilian soapstone (Canadian soapstone is full of asbestos and many artists develop health issues working with it) and his pieces are both substantial and delicate at the same time. His website describes his style as “a balance of innovative, modern and traditional elements” and his approach to the art form has led to a growing recognition of his work across Canada and around the world.
Some of his notable commissions include “Spirit of the Earth”, presented to former U.S. President George Bush; “Reunion”, for the Duke of York, Prince Andrew; “Trails of Nobility”, a gift to His Royal Highness, Prince Charles; and “International Vision Calls / 2020”, which was presented to Nelson Mandela.
Despite his affinity for stone, his favourite commission is the Unity Pole, contracted by the CNE to celebrate Canada 150. The thirty-five foot white cedar totem pole offered Nahrgang a unique opportunity to tell a very big story of creation, family, survival, conflict, honour and tradition – indeed, a story grand and sweeping, befitting a country of such complexity and diversity as Canada on its journey to unification.
In addition to his acclaim as an artist, Kris Nahrgang is a noted archaeologist, anthropologist, scholar and film maker as well as a published authority on First Nation issues.
Visitors to the Kawarthas can meet Nahrgang Labour Day Weekend at the Kawartha Arts Festival in Fenelon Falls, where he is a feature artist. In the meantime, you can visit his website – www.spiritofthestone.ca – for more information on the artist, his work and other accomplishments.
Written by Belinda Wilson
Photo credits: Morris Young
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