Artist Kevin L. Pee-ace was born in Kelvington, Saskatchewan and is a member of the Yellowquill First Nation and Peter Chapman First nation. Kevin's exposure to art happened at an early age. He recalled seeing the drawings and paintings created by his uncle, Jerry Whitehead, who would later become instrumental in helping to launch his career. Upon graduating from high school in 1991, Kevin went on to complete a Fine Arts Studio diploma program from UCFV – Abbottsford, British Columbia. During the mid-nineties, he explored various programs in Art History, Archaeology, Anthropology and Native Studies at Capilano College in North Vancouver.
Returning to Saskatchewan in 1995 Kevin enrolled at the UofS to continue his studies but quickly realized that the art was becoming more dominant thus committing to it full-time. Art and education have been constants throughout his career, this led to a collaborative approach in creating class murals with many schools throughout Saskatchewan. He currently resides in Saskatoon, Sk painting full-time. He is married and proud father to three children. He has three grandchildren; one grandson, Daniel, and two granddaughters, Raven and Aaliyah.
“I remembered that I use to visit my uncle jerry’s studio a lot, I would sit and watch him paint and I would also accompany him to art shows throughout Vancouver. After a couple of years I thought to myself ‘why am I watching him paint when I can do this myself’, and so began my career in first nations art.”
Artist Statement
My current style depicts traditional floral motifs reminiscent of beadwork, a homage to my late kokom, who created beautiful works on moss bags, moccasins, and saddles. This new style is a modern fusion of two worlds, one traditional and one contemporary. The importance of family is prominent throughout the works, The vibrant colours represents the joy of life, it is meant to inspire hope, success, and happiness. These paintings are a tribute to my late mother who was my guide throughout my life, my late Grandmother for her strength in cultural beliefs and traditions, and my children for the inspiration they give me, Meegwetch.