This particular image graced the poster announcing the Annual Tulsa Indian Art Festival in 1995. Which was also the year Padilla was the featured artist at this Oklahoma festival. Padilla’s selection also the first time a Native American artist outside of Oklahoma became the featured artist for this show. Signed prints are still available in a limited quantity from Padilla of San Felipe.

Having the opportunity to witness an Animal Dance at a New Mexico Pueblo is indeed a once in a lifetime experience, but to be able to participate is a whole other realm altogether.

The historical significance of the dance itself and the outfit is one thing but being the animal, be it the Deer, the Elk, Buffalo, Bighorn, Pronghorn, Bear or one of many birds, transforms one into the spirit of that being to bring life and personality to our wildlife friends. We were instructed by Creator Father to care and live in balance with plant and animal life, that they were given place on this earth as well. They were given the instruction to lay down their life for the sustaining of humanity but that people would offer them the respect of treating them like “dear” family members. So it is with pride, respect, and honor that those chosen to portray one of these beings would give their best portrayal as they dance with thanksgiving for the life that was given as a sacrifice for others.

Written by Fernando Padilla, Jr. © 1995 Padilla of San Felipe

Dances with Honor is available as a limited edition print framed to either 8×10 or 11×14.

To Purchase Prints and Originals, Please Visit Our New Store -Katishtya Trails Mercantile, LLC

Corn Mother Harvest of Life

This image was one of the first commercially successful artworks for Padilla; it garnered awards at several major Indian art competitions in the USA, received recognition from fellow artists as a truly special original and launched the professional career of one young man.

Taking liberties with the Pueblo story of the Twin Sisters the artist tells this story: Corn Mother has put to work her responsibility of procreating a community of Pueblo people from the never ending supply of corn seeds that adorn her life form. Having no arms, most of her work is done by thoughts, words and desire, she spreads her manta shawl like a mother hen protecting her children from the forces of nature brewing up as a storm behind her allowing only life sustaining moisture to nourish the emerging Pueblo children for their journey to their new home. After all plants are “harvested” she continues watch care over the village and begins the process of educating these new ones with the knowledge and wisdom to make their way in the new world with all the resources of sustenance any person would need. She reminds them to be deliberate in showing their gratefulness to Creator Father on a regular basis for all that is placed under their care. She warns them that all good things can be taken from them due to their neglect of responsibility, goodwill, and separation from community. Sacred cornmeal is given as the sign of this continued blessing for their mortal lives and as the consecration when their life journey has ended. As we, who live in the Pueblo way, know the Pueblo world is a delicate heritage and walk of life that remains balanced on the Sun/Son of Creator Father.
In research of this story and figure as well as conversations with fellow artists from nations and tribes, it was discovered that almost every indigenous tribe in North, Central, and South American countries has within their oral and pictograph history a Corn Mother or Mother Corn deity.

Written by Fernando Padilla, Jr. © 1987 Padilla of San Felipe

“Harvest of Life” is an award winning image that has long been a collector favorite and is available in both the 8×10 framed format and the 11×14 framed format.

To Purchase Prints and Originals, Please Visit Our New Store -Katishtya Trails Mercantile, LLC