Jonathan Thunder infuses his personal lens with real-time world experiences using a wide range of mediums. He is known for his surreal paintings, digitally animated films and installations in which he addresses subject matter of personal experience and social commentary. Jon is an enrolled member of the Red Lake Band of Ojibwe, and makes his home and studio in Duluth, MN.
He has attended the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) in Santa Fe, NM and studied Visual Effects and Motion Graphics in Minneapolis, MN at the Art Institute International. His work has been featured in many states, regional, and national exhibitions, as well as in local and international publications. Thunder is the recipient of a 2020-21 Pollock – Krasner Foundation Award for his risk taking in painting. Since his first solo exhibit in 2004, he has won several awards for his short films in national and international competitions. His work is in the permanent collections of Museums and Universities.
Acrylic on Canvas
30" x 40"
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Artist Statement for "Searching for Pauguk":
The story of Pauguk goes back to an Anishinaabe story I read in a Basil Johnston book. Pauguk fell deeply in love with someone who was already taken. The obsession cost Pauguk everything. The legend of Pauguk is described as a flying skeleton who terrifies those unfortunate enough to encounter him. He is seen as a monster. This adaptation of the story is the woman who would look for him, in a coffee shop with sprinkle donuts available. She wears an Ojibwe style hood and strap dress. Her antlers signify an immense strength and confidence.