Leo Arcand
Soapstone Sculpture

ARTIST'S STATEMENT

I do not produce art, nor do I create it. I discover the spirit of each stone and we, together, decide its message.

I have a holistic outlook on life. I want to learn something every day, to be better today than yesterday, not just as an artist, but as a person. Some day I want the young people of my community to see Leo Arcand as a good person. If I work at learning my culture, the teachings of the Elders, and the spirit within me, I know I will succeed.

A self-taught Cree Native who lives and works on the Alexander First Nation Reserve in Northern Alberta, Leo has drawn and sketched all his life but was only introduced to sculpting in 1991. His subject matter encompasses the connection between Mother Earth and its inhabitants. His sculptures often include both the bird and human figure, together demonstrating their natural and spiritual connection.

The majority of Leo’s work is in soapstone and he draws his inspiration from his deep native spirituality and his keen belief that in life there must be a balance of all things.

Most often, Leo likes to create his sculptures in the evening hours. Many times, he remembers going without sleep for days—working on a piece until he is satisfied.

Leo’s deep spirituality draws him into close contact with the Indigenous peoples’ natural affinity with Mother Earth and therefore, is ever reflected in his work.

To own one of Leo’s works is to have in one’s possession a sculpture - one with a deep spiritual message. Leo also works on the Reserve in the capacity of a youth and family aid worker.

Leo was commissioned to create an Indigenous Ceremonial Altar out of a 12300 lb. block of Marble from Colorado, carved on site for the Solicitor General in the Edmonton Remand Center. Leo Arcand’s sculptures can be found in many private and corporate collections throughout North America. His work is available at Rowles & Company Ltd. in Edmonton.