The Beauty of My People
1977
29 min
Coming soon
The film centres on Arthur Shilling, an Ojibwa artist from the Rama Reserve on Lake Couchiching, Ontario. Shilling's artistic evolution is traced, as is his move to Toronto and the difficulties he encountered there. Also discussed is the illness that caused Shilling to re-evaluate his artistic goals. Interviews with the artist and others interested in his paintings are juxtaposed with examples of paintings.
Details
The film centres on Arthur Shilling, an Ojibwa artist from the Rama Reserve on Lake Couchiching, Ontario. Shilling's artistic evolution is traced, as is his move to Toronto and the difficulties he encountered there. Also discussed is the illness that caused Shilling to re-evaluate his artistic goals. Interviews with the artist and others interested in his paintings are juxtaposed with examples of paintings.
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directorAlan Collins
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writerGary George
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narrationSherman Maness
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musicCourt Stone
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photographyDennis MillerRobert NewRichard Wincente
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editorAlan CollinsRonald SandersDavid Leach
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soundDavid LeeAerlyn Weissman
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stills photographerElizabeth Brewitt
Education
Ages 12 to 15
Health/Personal Development - Careers & Education
Health/Personal Development - Substance Use and Abuse/Addiction
Indigenous Studies - Arts
Indigenous Studies - Identity/Society
Before viewing, students study "Native art", noting characteristics of traditional examples. After viewing, identify how Shilling's work departed from traditional works. Why is this significant? Identify Shilling’s struggles as his work became recognized. How is this different/similar to artists today (Lindsay Lohan) and throughout history (Van Gogh)? Consider the film’s title as related to Shilling’s life and work. Create a piece showing the “beauty” of something in own life.
