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Stats20 Green Trees
Abstract Expressionism
2002- Contemporary
50.0 x 40.0 cm
Alberta Foundation for the Arts
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Giclée / Art Print
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20 Green Trees
Giclée / Art Print
Reproduction Size
-
Total Price
$ 63
A Visionary Tapestry of Light and Color
In the evocative masterpiece "20 Green Trees," created in 2002, the legendary Canadian artist Alex Simeon Janvier invites viewers into a realm where the boundaries between reality and abstraction dissolve. While the title suggests a pastoral scene, the painting functions as a profound exploration of light, texture, and theatricality. The composition is anchored by a striking red curtain that commands the viewer's attention, acting as a gateway to an unseen world. Through this crimson veil, luminous green lights pulse with an ethereal energy, creating a rhythmic interplay of warmth and coolness. This technique transforms the canvas into a stage, where light does not merely illuminate but actively performs, casting shadows and highlights that suggest a deeper, hidden narrative unfolding just beyond our perception.
The artistry behind this piece lies in Janvier’s masterful command of layered abstraction. The way the green lights seem to bleed through the fabric of the red curtain demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of translucency and depth. This is not merely a depiction of a stage; it is an exploration of the concept of "the reveal." The presence of smaller, secondary curtains in the background adds a complex architectural dimension to the work, guiding the eye through a labyrinth of color and form. For the discerning collector or interior designer, this painting offers a dynamic focal point that breathes life into any space, providing a sophisticated balance of bold primary tones and subtle, atmospheric nuances.
The Legacy of Dene Spirit and Modernist Expression
To truly appreciate "20 Green Trees," one must consider the profound cultural lineage of Alex Simeon Janvier. As a celebrated member of the Indian Group of Seven, Janvier’s work is deeply rooted in his identity as a Dene artist from the Treaty 6 territory. His style represents a monumental bridge between Indigenous spirituality and Western modernist abstraction. In this specific work, the vibrant use of color can be seen as an extension of his lifelong dedication to capturing the essence of life through movement and light. The "trees" referenced in the title may not be literal botanical forms, but rather symbolic representations of growth, vitality, and the interconnectedness of all living things—themes that resonate deeply within Dene cosmology.
The emotional impact of the piece is both captivating and introspective. There is a sense of anticipation inherent in the imagery, much like the breathless moment before a curtain rises on a grand performance. This tension between the known (the red fabric) and the unknown (the glowing green light) creates a psychological depth that engages the viewer on an emotional level. For those seeking to adorn a home or gallery with art that possesses both historical weight and contemporary aesthetic appeal, this reproduction offers a rare opportunity to own a fragment of Canadian art history—a piece that celebrates the enduring power of light to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
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Artist Biography
Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
Alex Simeon Janvier (February 28, 1935 – July 10, 2024) emerged from the Dene Suline territory of Treaty 6 in Alberta—a landscape steeped in Indigenous history and spirituality—to become one of Canada’s most celebrated First Nations painters. His formative years were marked by the experience of residential schooling, where he encountered his artistic talent early on, fostering a lifelong dedication to capturing the essence of Dene culture through vibrant abstraction. Recognizing Janvier's innate aptitude for visual expression, the principal at Blue Quills Indian Residential School encouraged him to pursue art formally, setting the stage for his transformative journey into the world of modernist painting.- Born on Le Goff Reserve, Cold Lake First Nations.
- Sent to Blue Quills Indian Residential School at age eight.
- Recognized artistic talent by school principal.
Formal Artistic Training and Influences
Janvier’s artistic education began at the Provincial Institute of Technology and Art in Calgary (later Alberta University of the Arts), where he encountered the profound impact of European modernist masters like Paul Klee and Wassily Kandinsky. These artists championed abstraction as a means of conveying emotion and exploring universal themes—principles that would become central to Janvier’s artistic vision. He honed his skills further at Norquest College, Ontario College of Art and Design, and University of Calgary, expanding his understanding of diverse artistic traditions.- Alberta Institute of Technology and Arts
- Norquest College
- Ontario College of Art and Design
- University of Calgary
- University of Alberta
The Emergence of Distinctive Style
Janvier’s artistic style is characterized by bold color palettes and radiating forms—a deliberate departure from representational art that reflects the spiritual traditions of his Dene heritage. He skillfully blended Western modernist techniques with Indigenous visual language, creating a unique aesthetic that prioritized emotional resonance over literal depiction. His approach was informed by the abstract patterns found in Dene hide-painting, beadwork and quillwork—elements he incorporated into his canvases to convey profound cultural narratives.Notable Achievements and Recognition
Janvier’s career spanned decades of artistic innovation and engagement with social issues. He achieved international acclaim for his monumental mosaic Tsą tsą ke kʼe (Iron Foot Place), commissioned for Rogers Place in Edmonton—a testament to his ability to synthesize art and community spirit. Furthermore, he was honored by the Order of Canada and Alberta Order of Excellence for his contributions to Canadian culture. His retrospective exhibition at the National Gallery of Canada solidified his legacy as a pioneer of Indigenous modernist painting, ensuring that his visionary work would continue to inspire generations to come. He received numerous awards including Governor General’s Awards in Visual and Media Arts and University of Calgary honorary degree (Doctor of Laws).
alexan simeon janvier
1935 - 2024 , Canada
Quick Facts
- Artistic Movement Or Style: Abstract Modernism
- Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist:
- Norval Morrisseau
- Bill Reid
- Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Paul Klee
- Wassily Kandinsky
- Date Of Birth: February 28, 1935
- Date Of Death: July 10, 2024
- Full Name: Alex Simeon Janvier
- Nationality: Canadian
- Notable Artworks:
- 20 Green Trees
- The Sky Beings
- Place Of Birth: Cold Lake First Nations, Alberta
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