Contained within the Circle of Life are Bear, Eagle, Salmon, Human, living in peaceful co-existence and interdepent on each other. Spider has also passed by as we see the web she has spun, inside the top of the circle. Represented are those creatures that walk on four legs, those that swim, those that fly, those that crawl, and those who walk upright.
We humans are very small within the context of Nature, and dependent on the natural world for our very survival; and yet we have caused such havoc. This circle is intended as a symbol of healing--a symbol of Spirit; the spirit that inhabits all life on earth. We are all interconnected. We are all one.
Amen!
ReplyDeleteI love how your artistic talents are expressed in so many diverse and amazing ways, Lynne.
Nicely done! Where will this piece call home?
ReplyDeleteWe have the eagle for courage, the salmon for determination and the bear for protection but, remind me, where does the spider fit?
a beautiful painting and beautiful words to accompany it. You have so many talents. thank you for sharing. blessings, suki
ReplyDeleteWonderful, both the thoughts and the piece itself.
ReplyDeleteA really awesome piece of art. I can also see this design as a wonderful pendant. I imagine a lot of people both men and women, would enjoy wearing, displaying, and being reminded of the symbolism...
ReplyDeleteI sit quietly in humble reverence.
ReplyDeleteAm reading two books at present :
Native American Testimony (Nabokov)
The Invasion of America (?)
Both terribly disturbing. What was the name of that song by a friend of ours ? "Stolen Land" ?
Bonnie,
ReplyDeleteSo many projects, so little time; madly off in all directions.
DCW,
ReplyDeleteThis will take up residence in the abode of the local librarian.
The spider is for creativity (think of the intricacy of the web she weaves).
sukipoet,
ReplyDeleteI'm happy that this design is seeing the light of day rather than languishing in my portfolio. Gratifying to know that it, and my simple words, have touched you.
Shayla,
ReplyDeleteWhat can I say but "thank you." Praise of one's work from another visual artist is always pleasing to one's virtual ears.
Stickup,
ReplyDeleteI hadn't thought of this design for jewellery but you are so right. A pendant or earrings would be cool. It would be great in silver, too. I thought it would be good painted on a hand drum or on the back of a denim jacket. Neither of which I've done.
Owen,
ReplyDeleteMuch can be learned from the old teachings of the aboriginal peoples about how to walk respectfully upon the earth. Sitting in reverence is a good start.
I love that beautiful circular totem, a magnificent and original design.
ReplyDeleteLeovi,
ReplyDeleteA totem, yes, exactly what it is. I am happy that it speaks to you so strongly.
It just occurred to me to wonder why we call them "aboriginal" people, and not just "original" people...?
ReplyDeleteOwen,
ReplyDeleteFrom the Latin ab origine, from the beginning.
it is so wonderful... the symbolism is enhanced by the abstract patterns and the vivid colours, i have no words to say how much i love it. i agree with Stickup, i would also want this as a pendant!!!
ReplyDeletedid you take a course in north-american native arts or just studied them by yourself?
Roxana,
ReplyDeleteI took a course when I went back to art school to finish up my BFA. First semester was to do with Northwest coast native art (Canada); second was the art of the Southwestern tribes (U.S.A.)
I have a few books of amazing masks, totems, beadwork, dolls, etc. There are some wonderful native art shops that I visit every time I go to Vancouver or Victoria. I'm sure I leave a trail of drool behind me when I exit.
Wow--what a bold striking design! I especially love how their faces are all nestled up together.
ReplyDeleteA beautiful piece,the design,colours and symbolism.It must be inspiring to be close to this land and cultural history.
ReplyDeleteRobin,
ReplyDeleteCan you see it as a quilted wall-hanging,perhaps? I thought of this because you pointed out the bold design. I've contemplated doing it as a rug-hooking...but I've given up that habit (at least for now).
Forest Dream Weaver,
ReplyDeleteThe cultural history of the native Americans has enjoyed a renewal in the public eye, and a general acceptance where once it was literally banned. It is gratifying and inspiring to see real native art growing and developing and inspiring new artists.