A Radio-Canada investigation that included looking into a civil lawsuit indicates members of Norval Morrisseau's family and the man representing the late Indigenous artist's estate — who for years have presented themselves as the main victims of forgers and art dealers — might have played a role in this system that continues to undermine his legacy.

Ritchie Sinclair, Morrisseau's former apprentice, said he can't help but feel relief after learning about a $1.45-million lawsuit filed by a Calgary…