Struggle for Balance 2013

Kent Monkman, born in 1965, created this painting, "Struggle for Balance," to address complex issues within contemporary society. He combines historical and mythical elements with scenes of modern life, inviting us to consider how the past shapes our present. Monkman, who is of Cree ancestry, often integrates figures from classical art history into his work. Here, they appear amidst a chaotic scene of a car on fire, people fighting, and a bear being restrained. This juxtaposition challenges traditional representations of Indigenous people, who have often been marginalized or misrepresented in art. The "Struggle for Balance" evokes the tensions between different cultures and the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition. The artist asks us to reflect on the emotional and personal dimensions of these societal issues. Monkman’s work ultimately calls for a re-evaluation of historical narratives and a recognition of the diverse voices that make up our collective story.