Much of the folklore regarding women was subterranean, to the mainstream for many generations; but they were and continue to be very much alive in the cultures from which they came.
In the Native American (Navajo) culture, “Changing Woman – “Estsanatlehi” comes closest to being the personification of the Earth and of the natural order of the Universe as to any other brief way of describing her. She represents the cyclical path of the Seasons, Birth (Spring), Maturing (Summer), Growing old (Fall) and Dying (Winter), only to be reborn again in the Spring.”
To learn more about the Native American Changing Woman:
http://www.firstpeople.us/FP-Html-Legends/Changing_Woman-Navajo.html
I’m happy that these great stories are not lost! Discovering these stories continues to be an amazing and educational process for me.
Please remember, this is my artistic attempt in the imagery of Changing Woman. Native Americans carry the true image in their culture, hearts and souls.
WORK PROCESS:
I knew the image would be woman-centered, and exploring the great folklore of goddesses. I always start out tentatively with a light graphite sketch and then strengthen my line work as I progress. This image started with (3) circles. I’m partial to circles (hmmm…I should probably explore that more!) 🙂
The first woman in the process of creating this art, was the elder woman, in the center. I am fascinated by elder women because of their experiences, wisdom and their life choices, (and/or how life chooses them). Then from that point on, the image led me. I’m not sure where this goddess series is leading me, but I am following the artistic muse.
Diana Evans said
Hi Indigene!!!
I love the circles…nice work and cool how they all connect!!!
Krista Hamrick said
Wonderful! I love how your work is so rich in culture, color, pattern and stories!
Jessica said
Wonderful story, thanks for sharing!
Lynette said
Transformation is a wonderful thing to embrace. Thanks for your kind words. Hope all is well with you, too!
theartofpuro said
Wonderful illustration!Very clever!
soulbrush said
your art is always so inspiring and uplifting.
Wain said
Awesome job. Very interesting and inspirational
vanessa newton said
This is so note worthy and beautiful. Very nicely done. It is so very uplifting spiritually. Great work Darling. You have done it again!!!!
sandra.d. said
brava indigene! it’s adorable drawing! ;]
Deb Clandening said
Beautiful work. Thank-you for the illustration and information on changing woman. The 3 circles is intriging.
~Deb~
Tomás said
Nice idea!
doodlebugger said
I really like the feel of your pieces, they really have a flow to them making you feel calm and smooth.
Jan Stamm said
Your piece is so thoughtful – I love the symbolic representation and the story – especially showing the strength and power of the women and their connection with the animals.
Ivz said
Thank you for your comment! =D this is really cool I’ve never seen something like this before! great work =)
lynda grace said
thank you for tremendous insight, integrity and intellectual curiosity. This piece is beautiful.
Nicola Toms said
Hi there, Wow you have been busy!! Your last two entries for Illustration Friday are beautiful! This one in particular, what a wonderful way to address this weeks theme, fantastic painting, it is so unique and so you! Beautiful colours and those faces are lovely! I’ve started a bit of a project with myself where I’d like to paint women from all over the world in traditional dress, so far I’ve done a Geisha girl and an Indian lady. The next one I’ve been wanting to do is a Native American Lady. You have really inspired me to learn more about this culture. Thank you :0)
Fernusan said
Beautifull drawing and nice combination of nature criatures. Good work!
diane mccauley said
This is so amazing! I loved the story too. Your colors are just amazing.
Susan said
Beautiful idea and illustration Indigene, I love your goddess project! I am also fascinated by Native American cultures and will be doing a piece based on some Northern Woodlands folklore. Keep up the great work!
heidi aldin monteleone said
Really interesting interpretation. It’s beautiful how each circle is interconnected. A lot to take in and enjoy!
valgalart said
really beautiful work! so important and a beautiful tribute to women! Thank you for this link too 😉
serline said
Wonderful story and I love your art work.
cobol said
this is a very beautiful piece, love the animals in this
Sally Taylor said
Very meaningful! Nice job.
Hannah M said
Love the colours and the overlapping circles. Looks great.
candace trew camling said
I like this piece, very well thought out!
Laura Taylor Mark said
Love the details and the circles are perfect for your concept – I think for most woman all things come full circle eventually don’t they? Thanks for visiting my blog, stop by any time 🙂
Bella Sinclair said
I love your interpretation of subterranean! It’s very refreshing and moving. You’ve created another amazing piece. I love the bright colors. And thank you for sharing your thought process. Always fascinating to read!
Scentsy said
The colors captured my eye and I can envision any wall in which this piece is displayed will be the center piece of the room. What great talent!
Douglas Jack said
Hello Theresa,
Wonderful pictures celebrating strong women.
I'm writing for the connection our website Indigene Community http://www.indigenecommunity.info has to your own. Our focus is on the worldwide 'indigenous' (Latin = 'self-generating' whole systems multi-disciplinary, intergenerational heritage of everyone on earth over five sections with 34 subsections.
Douglas Jack