In the hopes of honoring the Native American tribe that once dwelt in this place I now call home, I came up with this concept utilizing the flora and fauna of this area of Colorado, and a Native American symbol for the Great Spirit.  Locals will probably recognize prairie sunflowers, blue spruce and aspen leaves.  Birdwatchers will be able to pick out a Western Tanager, Chickadee and Cedar Waxwing. Even the feathers I used for the smudge feathers were painted using references from local bird life. 

I always love painting animals, but the added symbology made the creation of this painting an absolute joy.  May we all pray for healing for our land.

This painting will be on display and available for sale at local Golden gallery, Wings of Eagles, this coming Saturday (September 19th), from 10 to 4.  I will be set up outside, live painting a similar piece, based on the Wintu Tribe of Northern California. 

The prairie sunflowers are in full bloom here in Colorado, and sometimes a quick, bright painting is so happiness inducing!  A time-lapse of this painting being created will soon be available, but in the meantime, I thought I'd show off the final piece.  It makes me happy.  I hope it makes you happy, too!