Den Poitras (American), Chief of Belief

Artist built shadowbox frame with assemblage, 2021, signed and dated.

12 x 14 x 3 in. (closed)

Den Poitras' work is guided by the theme of unity through diversity. Found objects are intuitively assembled with industrial strength adhesives into sturdy, handmade shadow boxes, then unified through layers of white primer, painted environments such as sky, sea, or outer space, and meticulously detailed foreground elements. This self developed process bypasses conscious planning, allowing a deeper, intuitive source to shape each piece with mystery and visual harmony.

Rooted in the idea of matter as mater, the universal mother or unified field of energy, the work reflects a belief shared by Indigenous traditions that all things are sacred and imbued with spirit. Having explored art since early childhood, the artist views creativity as an expression of universal intelligence and unconditional love. Viewers are invited to engage with the work intuitively, with openness, wonder, and a sense of humor, as many of the pieces carry an undercurrent of playful wit.

Good estate condition.