Norval Morrisseau (Copper Thunderbird) is arguably the most influential Indigenous artist in Canada. After spending $20,000 at a reputable Toronto gallery to purchase Spirit Energy of Mother Earth, The Barenaked Ladies’ Kevin Hearn was surprised to discover the authenticity of his Morrisseau canvas being called into question. This leads the rock star into the tragic and exploitative web of art forgery ring in Canada’s north that quickly widens far beyond the canvas. Questions of authenticity, appropriation, and exploitation underlay this devastating story about a visionary artist caught between worlds.
Content notice: This film contains sexual violence trigger material.