General information

Meryl McMaster is a Canadian and Plains Cree photographer whose best-known work explores her Indigenous heritage. She was born 1988 (age 32 years), Ottawa

Education: OCAD University

Residence: Ottawa

Wearing various designed costumes, sculptural garments, makeup, and custom-made props, Meryl McMaster examines the overlapping cultures and histories of both her Indigenous and European ancestors in this series of performative self-portraits. Documented at ancient sites in Saskatchewan and the shores of early settlement in Ontario and Newfoundland, her images originate from he r interpretation and reenactment of patrimonial stories told by relatives, knowledge keepers, and friends. McMaster’s otherworldly personas pose theatrically in front of these majestic panoramas, speaking to how inherited historical narratives inform her dual identity.

Curator: Gaëlle Morel

Some of her Artwork

Awards:

• Canon Canada Prize

• the Ontario College of Art and Design Medal in Photography

• Eiteljorg Contemporary Art Fellowship^[

• REVEAL Indigenous Art Award

Website: Meryl McMaster

Source: MERYL McMASTER website; Wikipedia; Stephen bulger gallery