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Untitled #1225

By: Star Wallowing Bull

In Untitled # 1225, Star Wallowing Bull uses geometric and organic shapes to construct a contemporary, abstract image of a traditional Native American dancer. The celebratory nature of the dance is enhanced by Wallowing Bull’s use of bright, contrasting colors and implied movement. The ritual dance performance speaks to the spiritual nature of Wallowing Bull’s heritage. The border design is based on Ojibwe patterns that the artist up-dates significantly to add increased visual energy. In general, Native American dances are performed on a variety of occasions. Some serve as worship and prayer; others are used for healing; some mark important life events, such as birth or marriage. Dance can also be used as way to show respect for the Creator. As a social activity, it functions as a way to bring people together to affirm connections to each other, the earth, the past, the present, and the future.