Price
$5,900.00
Dimensions
17.000 x 24.000 inches
This original painting is currently for sale. At the present time, originals are not offered for sale through the FineArtAmerica secure checkout system. Please contact the artist directly to inquire about purchasing this original.
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Description:
As some may have noticed, Im revamping my pages here on FineArtAmerica. Many of the images you see have been up in the past then removed. I like to rotate the art and keep things interesting, rather than exhibit everything at once.
Here's an exerpt from the story of this painting:
" I?m neither scholar nor Lakota, and this visionary interpretation originates from within myself. The inspiration however, is rooted in both established tradition and the realities of prairie ecosystems. This image is like the caterpillar nestled within the cocoon of its own spinning. The true story curls in upon itself and stays hidden, waiting the time of emergence.
I visited an exhibition of 19th century adornment created by First Nations plains cultures. One item in particular caught my interest; an ornament skillfully crafted to resemble a large cocoon. Accompanying text noted that Lakota warriors often attached an actual or facsimile of the large Prairie Sphinx moth cocoon in their hair before entering battle, and cocoons were associated with bison, earth, and wind. It was worn as a method of transferring moth?s powers to the warrior, disorienting enemies as the whirlwind stirs the prairie dust and tornados destruct all in their path.
I?m intrigued by transformation and metamorphosis, and understanding the biological processes makes it all the more amazing. Over the years I?d sometimes think about these caterpillars burrowing under ground to spin cocoons, and the link with bison, wind, and protection in battle. I?d remember that cocoon fetish and wonder who?d made and worn it. While working on my degree I took several eco-biology courses and by chance had an opportunity to learn more about prairie ecosystems. I compared the science, the Lakota tradition, my own observations and experiences on the rez and walking the northern and Midwestern prairie. The result was this painting and enough material to fill a small book.
"And so I welcome Prairie Sphinx Woman, my companion. In a sacred manner we dance, celebrating the circle of life. We dance great circles like the seasons, and spin tiny circles like the finch's nest. Her feet are so light they don?t touch the ground, tripping flower to flower. Mine are clumsy and earth bound but still keeping in time. Yummni, the little dust devil boy, swirls laughingly round our feet as we step to the chattering chant of Burrowing Owl?s song, the dry rattling of Rattlesnake?s shaker. Always, always, the drone of rhythmic whirring, chirping, and clicking of insects vibrating through the shimmering prairie heat. Their chant flows within and without , underscoring all. The sacred, cleansing perfume of sage and good - spirit calling aroma of sweetgrass intoxicates as we mimic Meadowlark?s melodic call. Our dance recalls the free spirited diving and dipping grace of swallow as he rides the wild winds that announce a rising storm. In one way this day is like any other, it is precious."
Text and Image copyright Helena Nelson -Reed, please respect this and don't use without written permission.
