“Extinction of the Herd” 12 x 36” Oil on Clayboard panel

This story of extinction is witnessed within a more contemporary canvas tipi structure.  The bison herd provided everything essential to the survival of the Northern Plains Native American tribes. The bison provided literally food, shelter and clothing.  Plains Indian tribes followed the migration of the bison, thus their homes must be as mobile as their society.  Symbolically, the bison is evident in the Native culture, and the most sacred of all was the white bison.  Once the bison herds were driven to near extinction, this way of life ended.

This painting is currently on exhibit at The Spearfish Arts Center, below the Matthews Opera House in Spearfish, SD.  If you are in the area, check out this amazing arts center.  There is a lot going on there for all.  Check out their website: http://spearfishartscenter.org