| The Artist
Born on the West Coast of Canada, Old Bear comes from a noble Metis background. At a time when it was "not cool" to be of native blood, many traditions and family lore were hidden. It was not until recently the family history became known and it was discovered that a direct relation was Pierre Parenteau, buffalo hunter. Pierre was appointed the President of the provisional government Louis Riel had formed during the North West Rebellion(1884-1885). Pierre was sentenced to 7 years prison time for his part in the rebellion. Many of the Metis relations were and are still located in Batoche, Saskatchewan, Canada, the heart of the North West Rebellion and home to Back to Batoche Days, an annual Metis Celebration like no other. |
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With the government residential schools being a constant threat to all Natives in North America, Old Bear Grinning was fortunate to have been protected from that possible outcome. Old Bear always knew he was different, faced prejudice and still prevailed as his forefathers had. He always had dreams of the spirits around him that beckoned his attention. After picking up his first carving tool at the age of 10, Old Bear has created a style of his own. Through the examples of Bill Ried, Robert Davidson, and Tony Hunt, as well as other prominent West Coast Artists, Old Bear has integrated the Haida style in with his own spiritual interpretation.
Life's journey has obstacles for us all and Old Bear Grinning was given his share. Winning the battle of alcoholism after 25+ years was a breakthrough and freedom setter. Old Bear healed well from his addiction only to have fate throw another curve ball; a fall while he was on the job. Old Bear held a variety of jobs in his time, yet being an iron worker was in his blood. This is where tragedy struck just when life was working it's magic with Old Bear Grinning. He fell four stories to the ground, injuring himself gravely and the road back to wellness was filled with challenge, tears and adventure. Old Bear has healed as much as he can in a physical sense and it is his art that keeps him healthy spiritually.
Through many travels and wanderings on this walk of the Red Road, Old Bear Grinning finds himself in an idealistic setting of creativity and spiritual serenity. Gabriola Island, British Columbia Canada is one of the many islands nestled in the Georgia Strait waters. Surrounded by wonderful Cypress and Cedar trees, wildlife roaming free, the setting is complete for Old Bear Grinning to create his wonderful art. It is small, peaceful place and the island's motto happens to be "The Isle Of The Arts". That in itself says more than any words could as to the energy and space Old Bear has found by planting his feet there.
The History
Old Bear started carving with what ever wood and tools he could find. As his talent became apparent to himself and those around him, better materials and tools were called for. Old Bear decided on Red and Yellow Cedar because of the fragrance and versatility of the wood itself. The shades of yellow and red are endless and with different finishes, the total effect is changed yet again. Also when painting cedar, the woodgrain has a wonderful knack of showing behind the paint.
All the pieces are carved completely by hand, no power tool is used once the wood is in the hands of the artist. Old Bear uses a variety of carving tools from adze to exact-o knives to carving blades so thin they make hairline cuts. Diligently, Old Bear makes cut after cut, chip after chip, until a wonderful spirit emerges from the wood.
Once an idea for a piece comes to the mind of Old Bear, he then takes pencil in hand and starts sketching what he sees in his imagination. Sometimes these sketches can take a mere hour or so while others will take days or weeks, yet the formulation of the piece is well on its way once the sketch satisfies Old Bear. Some times the spirit image is so clear to Old Bear that no sketch is needed, it is just straight to the block of wood and onward with creating. From the sketch, concept, or idea, templates are created if needed and the outline is then sketched onto the piece of wood. Once the outline is done, then the tools come out in what ever order they are called for with what ever Old Bear is working on.
When the piece is finally considered "done", some are given a simple Bee's Wax Finish while others are partial painted, fully painted or coated with a lacquer to preserve the wood and paint. How this is determined is usually due to the grain, the detail, the color and the texture of the wood. Also at times, some of the detail just looks more expressive of the spirit within when a touch of paint is added. Each piece holds a great feel for the spirit within.
Thank You Again
Most of the art shown on these pages that Old Bear Grinning has made, are his personal collection and family gifts. It is our intention to one day, find a gallery to show some of Old Bear's finer works, yet that will be in the future. Thank you for visiting Old Bear Grinning's web site and it is intended that the spirit here has moved you. Thanks again from our home to yours!
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