Before his untimely death at 45 years of age Cecil Youngfox had established himself as one of Canada;s leading native artists. Born in Blind River, Ontario to Ojibwa and Metis parents and influenced by his belief in Christianity and his native heritage he created art that often recall symbols of spirit and spirituality. Graceful curved and spidery lines are the basis of his images as in Redkettle's "Wendigo". Among the many honours bestowed on him, Youngfox recieved the Aboriginal Order of Canada for his work in preserving his native heritage.