Kris Nahrgang
Kris began to carve in November 1989, as a hobby. After working in the auto body business for 16 years, Kris’ hands were near crippled from overuse. Doctors told him his hands would never work well again. As therapy, and to provide gifts to family and loved ones for the holidays, Kris began to carve.
The creative ability he possessed since childhood came to life in his work. Kris Nahrgang is an Ojibway Treaty Indian and is currently the elected Chief of his community, Kawartha Nishnawbe First Nation. Kris lives with his family in Big Cedar, Ontario, about 40 minutes north of Peterborough.
His style has a balance of innovative, modern and traditional elements which have led to a growing recognition of his work across Canada and the world. His work has been noted in art periodicals including Insight, Art Impression and Collectibles, as well as MacLean’s Magazine.
In 1992, one of his pieces, “Spirit of the Earth” was presented to former U.S. President George Bush. Also, a painting named “Reunion” was presented to the Duke of York, Prince Andrew and now hangs in his private office in Buckingham Palace. In the summer of 1994, Kris was chosen to represent Canada at the Festival de Reviers in Normandy, France.
Kris joined 6 other top Canadian Native artists for the 50 year anniversary of the Allied Invasion. In 1995, Kris presented a sculpture entitled “Trails of Nobility” to His Royal Highness, Prince Andrew, on behalf of Lakefield College School. One of the more recent commissions Kris has completed is for International Vision Calls / 2020: This resulted in the presenting of a very special eagle carving to Nelson Mandela.
