Legendary artist Allen Sapp dies at 87
- EFN Staff | December 30, 2015
One of Saskatchewan's most renowned First Nations artists died earlier this week.
Allen Sapp, who grew up on the Red Pheasant First Nation, died Monday at the age of 87.
He was raised by his grandmother, and their relationship often inspired much of his artwork, which depicted life growing up on a Cree reserve.
Sapp began showcasing his paintings in Saskatoon in 1968. The following year, he held his first major exhibition at the Mendel Art Gallery; on opening night, he sold nearly all of his 61 pieces.
Over the next 6 years, his art was shown in London, New York, Los Angeles, and most major Canadian cities.
In 1975, he was elected to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. In 1980, he presented Princess Margaret with one of his paintings.
He won many awards for his work: in 1985, the Saskatchewan Award of Merit; he became a member of the Order of Canada in 1987; in 1995, he received the Lifetime Award for Excellence in the Arts from the Saskatchwean Arts Board; and in 2003, he received the Governor General's Literary Award for his illustrations in the children's book, The Song Within My Heart.
The Allen Sapp Gallery in North Battleford features his work from the collection of his mentor, Dr. Allan Gonor.
The Saskatchewan Arts Board recognized the key contributions Sapp made to the art community:
"Mr. Sapp has remained steadfast in the retention of his Cree Language and cultural traditions. He is an important mentor for young aboriginal people, and has assisted many wishing to pursue a career in art or to explore their culture through art."