Allen Sapp

Who is Allen Sapp?

Allen Sapp, OC, SOM is a Canadian Cree painter, currently living in North Battleford, Saskatchewan. His art and his story have become well known throughout Canada and has become an inspiration to many. His paintings tell a personal story. Many of his paintings feature images of his grandmother, and reflect the love he has for her. His paintings seem to touch something in all people and his work and life story have been the subject of numerous books and television documentaries over the years.

Allen Sapp was born on the Red Pheasant Reserve, south of the city of North Battleford. His mother suffered from tuberculosis and eventually died during his adolescence.

Allen was raised by his maternal grandmother and grandfather, Albert and Maggie Soonias. As a child, Allen was often ill and spent long hours in bed. His grandmother nurtured him and encouraged his love of drawing, teaching him in the Cree ways.

He attended the Red Pheasant school, but was often mocked and teased by the other children and teachers because of his desire to draw. His grandfather removed him from the school because he needed him on the farm.