Jodi Rave: George Longfish never short on imagery

Wednesday, April 4, 2007  

"George Longfish never comes up short on imagery or words when he presses a paint brush to canvas.

The internationally recognized artist's work is as provocative as the names he gives each art piece, titles such as, “Good-bye Norma Jean, The Chief is Dead,” or “I Will Never Be the Same When I Leave My Father's Lodge,” or “Don't (mess) With a Boy Named Sue.”

On Tuesday, Longfish stood inside the Montana Museum of Art and Culture at the University of Montana where two gallery halls recognize his prominent role in the contemporary Native American art movement. He looked at his “Sue” painting from which a tough-and-hard warrior stares back. “He's like somebody I wouldn't want to meet in an alley,” Longfish said. “It would be like, OK, see you later.”

Longfish, who makes his home in Berwick, Maine, arrived in Montana after missing in action for more than three decades. He's in town to lecture during a national traveling exhibition in his honor called, “George Longfish - A Retrospective,” which can be viewed on campus until April 20.

The Seneca and Tuscarora artist studied painting, sculpture and film at the Art Institute of Chicago, where he graduated in 1972. He arrived in Missoula the same year to become director of the University of Montana Graduate Program in American Indian Art. He stayed until 1973. The program ended the same year. It was unique then and has never been duplicated.

The UM program attracted evolving Native American artists from throughout the country. Longfish was able to influence emerging artists, many who have led successful art careers. The professor encouraged students to break away from stereotypes in their art and to experiment with a range of styles and techniques."

Get the Story:
Defining culture: Prominent Native artist shares his life's work at UM (The Missoulian 4/4)

Relevant Links:
Jodi Rave - http://www.missoulian.com/jodirave

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