This volume accompanies the 2004 MOA exhibition Robert Davidson: The Abstract Edge, which was also on view at the National Gallery of Canada from 2005–2007. The exhibition brought together thirty works by acclaimed Haida artist Robert Davidson including paintings, drums, panels and sculptures, alongside five 19th-century Northwest Coast artifacts. This volume, written by exhibition curator Karen Duffek, also features an essay by Robert Houle.

“The Abstract Edge brings together thirty works by Robert Davidson with five 19th-century Northwest Coast artifacts. Many of the contemporary works belong to Davidson and have been created specifically for this exhibition; some are on loan from public and private collections. The contemporary works include several paintings on canvas, paper, and stretched deerskin drums; carved and painted red-cedar panels; epoxy-coated aluminum sculptures; and sketchbooks. The historical objects (including painted bentwood dishes and a painted canoe paddle) are drawn from the Museum and other collections. MOA Curator of Art Karen Duffek curated the exhibition and wrote the catalogue, to which Robert Houle also contributed an essay.”

Robert Davidson is one of Canada’s most respected and important contemporary visual artists. A Northwest Coast native of Haida and Tlingit Descent, he is a master sculptor of totem poles and masks and works in a variety of other media as a printmaker, painter and jeweller.