“Within the Fabric” 11 x 18” Watercolor on Paper

Once someone has visited my home, I can feel their presence there ever-after.  It leaves a mark on the very fabric of my life and my home. 

This painting represents the impact of presence and of change.  The Plains Native American culture was forced into change.  The animal which provided everything, the bison, was pushed to near extinction.  This impacted not only dietary culture, but also the clothing worn and the material in which dwellings were constructed.  Regardless, this canvas tipi represents the presence of culture remaining.  Tipis began to be made of canvas, and although forced onto reservations, the people persisted.  The Thunderbird is a symbolic form in Plains Indian culture.  The strength and tradition it represents remains within the fabric of this rich culture.

This painting will be on display for the month of June at the Spearfish Arts Center as part of the Artists of the Black Hills Annual Show: come check out the art created by our regional artists!