Frank Orvis = Folk Art Extraordinaire

Met a fine old man yesterday, Mr. Frank Orvis. (forvis@mymts.net)  Frank Orvis is a Sagkeeng First Nation citizen, his Mom was a Morrisseau from Fort Alexander, Manitoba. Frank grew up in the Grand Marais area and later moved to East Selkirk.  I believed his Dad worked as a commercial Fisherman and lived at Madison Island for a while as well. Frank joined the Army is Korean War Veteran.

Mr Frank Orvis. Artist 204-482-6084

I met Frank through my nephew Dr. Jeremy Patzer, who had met Frank a few weeks ago at a relatives funeral. Jeremy noticed Frank had a beautiful hand craved Diamond Willow cane. So Jeremy commented on his cane and they talked about Diamond Willow. Prior to meeting Frank, we had recently met a university professor who was looking for Diamond Willow. She, the professor is helping a Chief from New Found Land - Miawpukek First Nation. So it was fortuitous to meet Frank.

We went to visit him at his home in Selkirk Manitoba. It was a very nice visit. Frank is an artist. Many would label his art as Folk Art. In any case he is gifted. He makes Talking and Walking Sticks. He travels all over Manitoba looking for Diamond Willow. It was great to visit with him as he told us where he picked certain sticks.  On some trips he said he would come home with either one or none. It was quite interesting to hear his advice and experience on where he found and didn't find Diamond Willow. He has a large collection of willow in his garage. He has been collecting for over six years. Some of the willow are carved while many are peeled and drying. He also does painting and carving.

 I think Frank will be happy to find a number of his Diamond Willows have made their way to the East Coast. They are appreciated. Thanks Frank. 

raw peeled diamond willow

craved willow

Bear Cravings by Frank

almost finished

Frank painted boats he knows of and where the boats worked.

Boats of the area

His painted rocks to welcome people.