Art exhibit opens at NNATC By John Thomas ‘A Retrospective’

April 7th was the opening reception and start of ‘A Retrospective’ art show by Mohawk artist John Thomas. The exhibit is on display at the Native North American Travelling College (NNATC) on Kawehnoke (Cornwall Island) until Friday, April 28th.

The more you view a painting, the more you can see how John uses his artwork as a teaching tool of culture and history. Most special is how he incorporates his traditional teachings, learned from his mother and father, the late Georgia and Frank Standing Arrow Thomas.

David Fadden, the curator of the exhibit, collected original paintings and artwork from community members and agencies. They include John’s sister Jennifer Standing Arrow, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, Gus Pyke at Ononkwasona Pharmacy, MCA Department of Health, the Akwesasne Museum, Russell Roundpoint, and Michael Mitchell. Also displayed were paintings belonging to the NNATC and from John himself.

John’s wife, Leslie, and one of his daughters, Falon, along with John’s grandson Riley, were able to attend the opening, as well as his fellow artists and many admirers. John and Leslie have another daughter Starr and a son, Tiio.

His wife, Leslie, commented that she, their children and grandchildren are his biggest fans. She is very pleased that Russell Roundpoint and the NNATC recognized John’s talent to kick off their series in recognizing local artists and talent in Akwesasne.

John’s daughter, Starr, who couldn’t be at the opening reception, wrote the following about her father.

John Thomas

A Retrospective

The Artist, John B. Thomas is a Mohawk of the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory. He is a husband, a father of three, and a grandfather. For as long as John can remember, he has always been able to draw. This great talent that was given to him from birth is well recognized throughout Akwesasne . John has painted through many mediums, mainly acrylic and canvas paintings, wall murals, painted wood carved plaques, helmets, on the coveted Harley Davidson Motorcycles, and many more. He has also created many logos throughout his lifetime, such as the Aboriginal Hockey Association, Iroquois Water Ltd., Akwesasne Warriors Hockey team, and the Turtle Island Cafe, just to name a few. He also had his work commended by the Governor of New York during a private show­ing.

It was once said that you could find out the history of the Iroquois people from the exquisite strokes of John’s paintbrush. He always has a story, a legend, a piece of history behind each creation. “I portray the Mohawk/ Iroquois people the way my mind and spirit sees it; to inspire people to seek knowledge and the respect of our traditional culture,” says John. He goes on to say, “I come from a very traditional family, my parents, the late Frank “StandingArrow” and Georgia Thomas are remembered by many as great cultural educators. I carry that part of my family on to our future generations.” John’s expressions and knowledge is given to the communi­ty by speaking to children at local schools, High schools and Universities about his art. “I believe I must carry my vision on to the future genera­tions of the Mohawk people through my art work.” The painting above shows his vision.

John is a Wolf Clan, Mohawk who is one of Akwesasne’s finest artists that is the most culturally expressed. With his career spanning for over 40 years, John has mastered the use of color in his vibrant paintings. He is able to articulate the details of the Haudenosaunee culture with great accuracy and intricate detail. His work is sought by many art col­lectors, museums, and many Native Institutions, including the National Assembly of First Nations. In addition, he has had showings of his art throughout United States and Canada. John B. Thomas is the artist of true natural talent.

By Starr Thomas©

Russell Roundpoint, the Executive Director of NNATC, said this is the first of many upcoming exhibits featuring paintings, basketry, and lacrosse, to name a few. He said plans are underway to feature artwork by Gesso Thomas, who is John’s brother.

You can view the exhibit until April 28th

Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm

Meet the artist John Thomas again on Friday evening, April 20th from 5-7pm at NNATC, 1 Ronathahonni Lane, Akwesasne, Ontario.

For information call 613-932-9452

He will have prints available for sale.