CVAG Window + Plaza Media Gallery
THE SPIRIT GIGGLES WITHIN
A video montage inspired by the artist’s book of the same title
The book George Littlechild: The Spirit Giggles Within is a stunning retrospective of a career that has spanned nearly four decades. Featuring more than 150 of the Plains Cree artist’s mixed-media works, this sumptuous collection showcases the bold swaths of colour and subtle textures of Littlechild’s work.
Littlechild has never shied away from political or social themes. His paintings blaze with strong emotions ranging from anger to compassion, humour to spiritualism. Fully embracing his Plains Cree heritage, he combines traditional Cree elements like horses and transformative or iconic creatures with his own family and personal symbols in a unique approach.
George Littlechild: The Spirit Giggles Within shows the evolution of an artist from his earliest works to the present day, including hints of future directions and themes. An insightful foreword by artist and curator Ryan Rice, a Mohawk from the Kahnawake First Nationin Quebec, and Littlechild’s reflections on each piece build a broad understanding of Littlechild’s work, his life and his views on the role of art within all cultures.
A montage video of images from the book is now presented on the LED screen at CVAG, viewable from outside during gallery hours.
ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
George Littlechild has had numerous solo and group exhibitions. His art has been exhibited in Canada, the United States, Japan, Australia, Tasmania and Europe. His books and art have won numerous awards and scholarships. To date he has created hundreds of artworks, which hang in public and private collections around the world.
Littlechild was born in Edmonton, Alberta on August 16, 1958. The son of a Plains Cree mother and a Canadian Celtic father, Littlechild was taken from his home as part of the 60s scoop and was raised by foster parents in Edmonton. He received a diploma in art and design from Red Deer College in 1984, and a BFA from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, Halifax in 1988. He also received an Honorary Doctorate Degree from the University of the Fraser Valley. His socially charged mixed-media paintings are often made in response to political movements, societal concerns such as reconciliation and reclamation, as well as personal history.
“In my work, I am committed to righting the wrongs that First Nations peoples have endured by creating art that focuses on cultural, social and political injustices. As an artist, educator and cultural worker, my goal is a better world. It is my job to show the pride, strength and beauty of First Nations people and cultures, and contribute to the betterment of all people.” – George Littlechild
OPENING TALK WITH GEORGE LITTLECHILD, JESSIE EVERSON, AND PRISCILLA LITTLECHILD
Recorded September 20, 2025
CONTENT ADVISORY: This program addresses the difficult history of the Indian Residential School system in Canada, the tragic death and loss of over 5,000 Indigenous children, the Sixties Scoop and their destructive impact on the lives of individuals, families, and generations of those involved.
If you are a survivor, family member or feel that you are in need of support, you can seek assistance through:
• Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419
• Hope for Wellness Helpline at 1-855-242-3310 or www.hopeforwellness.ca
• BC Wide Indigenous Crisis and Support Line at 1-800-KUU-US17 or 1-800-588-8717
The Spirit Giggles Within is part of an expansive program at the Comox Valley Art Gallery called George Littlechild: Hope for a better world.
