Resurgence of the People 2019

"Resurgence of the People" (2019) by Kent Monkman is a large-scale painting depicting a group of Indigenous people navigating a stormy sea in a canoe. The figure at the forefront, adorned in a red dress and high heels, is a reimagining of the iconic figure of the "Indian Princess," challenging colonial representations of Indigenous women. The painting is a powerful commentary on the resilience and survival of Indigenous people in the face of colonialism and ongoing oppression. The contrasting figures on a rocky outcrop wielding guns against the canoe evoke the violence and subjugation experienced by Indigenous communities. Monkman's bold, vibrant style and theatrical composition draw attention to the historical and contemporary struggles faced by Indigenous communities, prompting viewers to reflect on the ongoing need for reconciliation and justice.