Ernie Scoles. a member of the Barren Lands Indian Band, was born at Cumberland House, Saskatchewan in 1962, and raised in northern Manitoba. It was here that he developed a deep feeling for nature and wildlife, taking advantage of every opportunity to explore the woods, lakes and streams during his childhood and school years.

Largely self-taught and working in traditional Cree imagery, Ernie finds:

"When I'm painting I have a great feeling of peace and harmony with nature and I feel a powerful connection between our creator and all living things. I believe my images reflect a oneness of nature and our human feelings. In my work I try to capture the spiritual interaction of life with the earth, sun wind, and sky. I always hope that at least one person will like the image I have painted."

His paintings are found in collections throughout Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia.

In 1992, Ernie was awarded the Governor General's Canada 125 Medal for his contributions to his community. He makes his home in Saskatoon with his wife Doreen, and their four children, Davian, Amanda, Cassie and Kalen.

You can see more of Ernie's work at his Website.