“Thunder on the Plains”
Written by admin on March 30th, 2009
This image is a representation of the many faces and forces of nature personified by Native American culture. Through their imaginative use of designs and symbolism, indigenous deities and regional icons almost come to life as portrayed by dancers and religious leaders. One of the most sacred is the Buffalo, its life and survival parallels the Tribes very own existence, for at one time it was believed, if the buffalo died off so did humankind.
The powerful and billowing clouds transports the Buffalo Guardian, whose rhythmic tempo is inspired from the rumbling echoes from the thunderstorm, soon He begins dancing. With every step lightning flashes out of the dark clouds and earth-shaking thunder roars. He shakes the rattle and rain falls as he sweeps the rattle back and forth. He has come not just to bring the much needed rain but he has come to gather up all the animal spirits that have given their life, in one way or another. Death comes so that new life may enter the world, that’s the circle. He will release those spirits to run free in their eternal home when He returns to the heavens.
Written by Fernando Padilla, Jr. © 1997 Padilla of San Felipe.
“Thunder on the Plains” is available as an open edition fine art print, framed to 8×10 inches for $60 or framed to 11×14 for $95.
