Jacques Newashish (born 1958) is a Canadian film actor, filmmaker, painter, and sculptor. [1] [2] Newashish is a member of the Atikamekw nation and is from Wemotaci, Quebec. [3] He was born in La Tuque, Quebec [2] where he learned traditional values and ways of living. [2] His father was a trapper and hunter and a teacher of the language and culture of the Atikamekw people. [4] Newashish incorporates elements of Atikamekw culture into his artistic practice and is concerned with the preservation of the Atikamekw language and culture in the community. [5]
As a multidisciplinary artist, Newashish works across a variety of mediums, including sculpture, painting, film, and storytelling. [4] His work includes installations which frequently use natural materials which reflect Atikamekw culture. [4]
Newashish garnered a Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the 5th Canadian Screen Awards for his performance in Before the Streets (Avant les rues). [6] In 2021 he appeared in the film Bootlegger , and in 2023 he appeared in Atikamekw Suns (Soleils Atikamekw).
