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A vivid favourite: The Spirit of Ahnisnabae Art

February 19, 2013

People looking at art

The large paintings which Roy Thomas completed in the latter part of his artistic career are among the general favourites of visitors to the “Vision Circle” exhibition. One in particular, The Spirit of Ahnisnabae Art #1, stands invitingly in the Tomlinson Gallery, a bright and almost glowing play of lively blue, energetic verticality, and chorus of spirits as represented by animals and the Great Spirit, the circle of the Sun.

This painting in particular is a wonderful example of Thomas’s mastery of colour. Combinations of lime green and red ochre, bright orange and ultramarine reach out visually and energetically to the viewer, infusing these works with a vitality that is best experienced firsthand.

Roy Thomas painting
Roy Thomas, The Spirit of Anishnawbe Art #1, 1997, acrylic on canvas, Collection of Thunder Bay Art Gallery
People looking at art

This is the last week to see Vision Circle: The Art of Roy Thomas at the Museum. Don’t miss it!

– Teresa Gregorio, Museum Monitor / Information Officer, McMaster Museum of Art

VIEW ARCHIVE
Link to News Archive for a complete list of past news articles

Recognizing Emerging Voices: 2026 Integrated Arts (iArts) Awards at the McMaster Museum of Art
May 7, 2026

The McMaster Museum of Art is proud to present and celebrate this year’s graduating Integrated Arts students through a series of awards, recognizing artistic excellence, collaboration, and innovation. From work that reflects the core values of the School of the Arts to projects that push creative boundaries and foster community — the SOTA Mission Award, Leadership & Community […]

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Christina Leslie Announcement on TFVA Award and Acquisition of Pinhole Remix (2020) for M(M)A Collection.
April 28, 2026

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Beyond February: Collecting Care and Reimagining Black Histories
March 3, 2026

The Black Madonnas of Perpetual Murmurs 19, 2023 collage, composition gold leaf, cutout on paper Museum of Art Collection Trust, 2024 As this year’s Black History Month come to a close, the McMaster Museum of Art wishes to extend its sincere appreciation to the Equity and Inclusion Office for their leadership and dedication in creating […]

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