Cultural Background: Ojibway – Christian Island, southern Georgian Bay, Ontario

A self-taught Beausoleil First Nation artist, William Anthony Monague, grew up on an isolated island with no access to formal education or training in the arts.  Monague – “Abwaudung” (The Visionary or Dreamer) discovered inspiration in the traditional teachings of Mother Earth, Spirit World and in the beauty of nature and in the Georgian Bay shores that surrounded him. Initially he was using the woodland style but soon developed his own more contemporary style of art. During the 1970’s and 80’s Monague followed the Pow Wow circuit in a van with his family down to Mexico. His work ended up in various museums and galleries along the way. Monague donated his time and artwork to many worthwhile causes, while helping others.

“I feel my art speaks to my culture. I have made a name for myself with my work and reputation but it has taken a long time.” 

He passed away peacefully to the Spirit World at the Georgian Bay General Hospital with his family by his side in 2019.