Ds-Nicholas de Grandmaison 11 Nicholas De Grandmaison

Here we observe a portrait study executed in pastel on paper. The subject is a man identified as Chief Body, Nina-stromi, Blood Indian, from Standoff, Alberta, dated 1933. He occupies the central position within the composition and is presented against a warm, ochre-toned background that appears to have been lightly washed with diluted pigment.
The artist’s approach emphasizes expressive mark-making over precise rendering. The face is characterized by strong planes and deep shadows, achieved through layering of pastel strokes in shades of brown, red, and grey. These tonal variations contribute to a sense of gravitas and age. Fine lines etched around the eyes suggest weariness or perhaps a contemplative nature. A single feather adorns his hair, positioned slightly off-center, drawing attention to the face while also introducing an element of symbolic significance – potentially representing leadership, spirituality, or connection to ancestral traditions.
The man’s braided hair is rendered with loose strokes that convey texture and movement. Strands hang down framing his face, softening the harshness of the facial features. The artist has paid particular attention to depicting the lines etched into the skin around the eyes and mouth, suggesting a life lived under challenging conditions.
The overall effect is one of dignified resilience. Theres an implied narrative here – a record of a person and a culture facing change or displacement. The subdued palette and direct gaze suggest a quiet strength rather than overt display. The inscription at the bottom provides contextual information, grounding the portrait within a specific time and place, while also hinting at the potential for broader commentary on Indigenous identity and representation during that period.