“The Great Tatanka”
The breath of the bison, a breath from time,
Accompanies the hunter, hidden, primed.
The hunt on stones, with the hand of man,
Binds the souls to earth and sand.
The spirit in the trees watches over all,
A whisper in the wind brings the ancestors’ call,
They share their knowledge, their souls roam free,
Connected by the eternal flame, gifting their energy
To those who hear the symphony,
Its echo flows full of magic through the Omnispirit of the world.
Where man and beast to eternity go,
The song of nature will forever glow.
Interpretation
The term “Omnispirit” emerged while creating this work, represented here by the bison, known as “Tatanka” to the Lakota. With these American Natives I feel deeply connected. The artwork brings together the wildness and mysticism of a primeval hunt. The dominating figure of the bison, hovering above the scene, symbolizes the powerful presence of a totem animal, seen both as prey and guardian spirit. The hunter below the tree appears resolute, drawing strength from the earth and nature. Cave paintings and symbols at the bottom allude to ancient rituals and stories deeply embedded in the human soul. The scene invites viewers to contemplate the cycle of life and the bond between humanity, animals, and the earth.
Art Critique
Composition and Symbolism: The work stands out with its strong composition structured by clear lines and natural forms. The hunter is centrally positioned, acting as the focal point, while the hovering bison creates a mystical aura. The symbols and cave paintings link the piece to an archaic, ritualistic past. The blend of modern and primordial elements blurs time, building a bridge to the past.
Color and Texture: The muted, earthy tones and gentle lighting produce a natural, calming ambiance reminiscent of early dawn. The warm colors harmonize with subtle shadows, creating depth and enhancing the mystical vibe. The texture, mimicking stone or ancient tapestries, adds a tactile dimension to the piece.
Lighting and Details: The bison’s ghostly presence, almost transparent against the tree, evokes a sense of both invisibility and omnipresence. The artist’s interplay with light and shadow brings out the details, guiding the viewer’s gaze through the scene. The balance between realism and abstract symbolism makes the work both accessible and profound.