“Ghost Dance Shirt” 12 x 36” Oil on Clayboard

The inspiration for this painting is a period Northern Cheyenne Native American Ghost Dance Shirt.  Adorned with traditional beading, hair, quill work and rawhide fringe, this shirt was intended to protect the wearer and bring forth the strength of the ancestors.  The petroglyphs imagery incorporated into the painting is symbolic of the heritage and strength of the culture which was being called upon. These rock carvings are still visible in the southern Black Hills, standing testament to the presence of forefathers and how their presence is still evident on this earth.

This painting “speaks to me” and is one I plan to hold onto for a bit.  I love the colors, textures and symbols.  It has an abstract quality which I love as well.

July is flying by: wishing all reading this a wonderful summer!