Maxine Noel was born of Santee Oglala Sioux parents. She was born in Manitoba and spent her early childhood on her mother’s reserve. When she reached the age of six, she left home and went to attend a residential school in Indian. Her early career as a legal secretary was soon put in the shade by her preoccupation with drawing and painting. Maxine took a course in advanced design. During her studies a teacher noticed her tendency toward linear expression and the teacher encouraged her in the use of line and shape to suggest movement. Maxine learned those lessons well, and this is evidenced by much of her today’s work. Since those early days she has mastered the skills of drawing and painting plus the processes of stone lithography, etching and serigraphy. Recently Maxine has turned her talents to creating editions in limited edition bronze castings and cast paper.
The artist has received admirable reaction to her work and now has the ability to devote herself to the creation of art on a full-time basis. She signs her artwork with IOYAN MANI, her Sioux name which means “'Walk Beyond.” The freedom and the friendly environment where she lives have given her an opportunity to exercise her creativity to the fullest. She’s able to produce stunning pieces of art that has earned her repute. Maxine has been producing art for several years and she confesses that she loves the work. Her works stand out because she takes her time to include the tiny details that most artists usually ignore.
