This month we talk to Cree painter, Frederick R. McDonald, who makes his living by painting portraits of Native heros of the past, scenes of traditional family life in northern Alberta and commissioned works. We spoke with Mr. McDonald at home and via E-mail.

Mr. McDonald, please tell us a little bit your chosen career.

I am an artist of Aboriginal ancestry and am very proud to be in this line of work. Specifically, I am a visual artist committed to a flat surface. I have a flair for colours and a desire to create. There are many definitions of art. It encompasses my life and culture. I make art for myself and to educate the public about my people.

How did you get into this career?

I started my life as a trapper in northern Alberta and then went into the oil industry. After about fourteen years I realized that I was not happy and travelled for about two years before deciding to get a university degree. While I was there, I found I enjoyed painting a great deal and that people wanted to purchase my art. It struck me, after a few sales, that I could make a living at it, so I put all my energy into making this happen.

What sort of education prepared you for this career?

I took art classes in high school and then sixteen years later at the University of Calgary. A formal education is good for the technical side and for the discipline, but from my experience, life is the best teacher. My travels and previous work experiences helped me to gain a good understanding and appreciation of life. They helped to form my ideas and how to represent these things in my art. I would say that the best artists are those who have had time to sit and think.

What are the "pros and cons" of being an artist?

I have to say that being my own boss is the best thing. As well, I really love meeting people. Many people who have purchased my work have become my friends and some have become very good friends. If there is a downside to making art, it is the business aspect. I have to keep records, pay bills and constantly promote my work and myself. This can be hard, especially if I am perceived as self-absorbed and arrogant. The worst thing, the most upsetting drawback, is not being able to sell any art. A career in art is not just about making art; it is about making a living too.

What are the aptitudes and temperaments required of someone thinking of becoming a painter?

The basic thing is that a person should have a good comprehension about what they are doing and how they are making art. Patience and understanding are the keys to making art and then to selling it. An interest in all aspects of life is also very important. I think that specific skills such as painting and drawing can be learned by anyone with the necessary patience and discipline. The key is to enjoy art and portray yourself in a good light. Be amiable, understanding, easy going and disciplined.

Tell us about a typical day in your life.

In the morning I open my eyes, jump out of bed, run around the house, make coffee, eat breakfast, watch 'The Price is Right' and then the noon hour news, because this makes me happy. At this point I decide if I want to paint and if I do I work for a few hours, take a break and then work into the night and early morning. This pretty much is my whole week. I often forget the day of the week and sometimes, the time of day. Once or twice during the week I go to meet with a friend or with a prospective client. I usually work four or five days of the week, dependent on my show schedule.

What sort of a living can an artist make?

The biggest misconception is that artists have to starve to be any good. I wouldn't be an artist if I had no money. An artist can make as many paintings as they like, but only when they sell something do they make a living. Depending on sales, an artist can make anywhere from four to five dollars an hour up to thousands of dollars an hour.

What about the future, Fred?

One day I hope to be considered one of the best artists in Canada and North America and to be appreciated for the work that I do. I also want to make a good living, so I am expanding my interests to other businesses that are affiliated with my art, such as T-shirts, golf shirts, posters, cards, prints and consulting--anything I have to do to stay in the business of art!

On a final note, art can be a good life if you love what you do and treat it like a business. As well, volunteer, get involved in your community and take any and all challenges that are directed your way. Be prepared for anything and most of all remember to enjoy life for it is all we truly have.

Thank you, Mr. McDonald.