Welcome
Masterpieces such as Androgyny, now hanging in the Governor General of Canada's official residence, and other works by renowned Ojibway artist Norval Morrisseau, are Canadian cultural treasures. Yet academics and researchers, the Art Dealers Association of Canada, the Norval Morrisseau Heritage Society, his protégés, principal dealers and estate recognize that there are thousands of forgeries and fakes in circulation. These are so pervasive, we believe that one example, Circle of Four, once hung in the Aboriginal Peoples Committee Room in the Parliament of Canada's Centre Block but has recently been removed. Others have found their way into art markets, private collections and museums around the world. We feel that this is the most significant art fraud in Canada's history and, for First Nations, Canada and the world, a cultural tragedy.
This website provides practical information for consumers who own or are considering buying a Morrisseau work. The information here can help protect you against fraud and deception, avoid rip-offs and help you make well-informed decisions before you spend your money. Our intention is also to signal to galleries that they are responsible for providing accurate information about the artworks they sell. It is the galleries, not the purchasers, that are in the best position to fulfill a due diligence role.
Morrisseau's legacy is an inspiration for all Canadians, and it is critical that it be protected. The Government of Canada appears to have responded to the gravity of the situation, apparently launching a Royal Canadian Mounted Police national investigation.
Disclosure and disclaimer statements: The author of MorrisseauBuyersBeware.com does not have any material financial interest in any commercial activity related to Norval Morrisseau artworks, and owns only a single painting. MorrisseauBuyersBeware.com is intended to be a source of practical information for consumers who own or are considering buying a Morrisseau work. Unless otherwise noted, opinions presented are those solely of the author. Documents presented on MorrisseauBuyersBeware.com have been sourced from those publicly available through the Canadian court system. Comments or questions can be directed to morrisseau@me.com.