Maxine Noel facts for kids

Maxine Noel (born in 1946) is a talented Canadian First Nations artist. She is from the Santee and Oglala heritage. Her Sioux name is Ioyan Mani, which means "walk beyond."

About Maxine Noel's Life

Maxine Noel was born on the Birdtail Reserve. This reserve is located in southwestern Manitoba, Canada. She taught herself how to create art. Before becoming a full-time artist in 1979, she worked as a legal secretary. Her art has been shown in many museums and galleries. You can find her work all across Canada.

Maxine's Art Techniques

Maxine uses several different art methods. These include serigraphy (screen printing) and lithography (printing from a stone or metal plate). She also creates etchings, paintings, and art made from cast paper.

Maxine's Community Work

Maxine Noel is also very involved in her community. She helps with groups like Native Earth Performing Arts. This group supports Indigenous artists. She has also given talks and joined discussions. These events were at places like the University of Western Ontario. She also helped with the native program at the Ontario College of Art.

Where to See Her Art

Maxine's art is part of important collections. You can see her work at the Canadian Museum of History. Her art is also at the University of Western Ontario. The Canadian Native Arts Foundation in Toronto has her pieces too. Another place is the Whetung Ojibwa Centre.

Art for a Cause: "Not Forgotten"

One of Maxine Noel's special artworks is called "Not Forgotten." She created this piece to honor and remember Indigenous women who have gone missing or been harmed. Maxine generously donated the money she earned from this art to the Native Women's Association of Canada. This organization helps Indigenous women.

In 2019, "Not Forgotten" was used in a campaign. This campaign was along British Columbia's Highway of Tears. The group Artists Against Racism used her art. They wanted to raise awareness about the final report. This report was about missing and harmed Indigenous girls and women.

Awards and Recognition

In 2018, Maxine Noel received a special honor. She was named a member of the Order of Canada. This is one of the highest honors a Canadian can receive.