Original Artwork
Ink on matte board
Gerald Dawavendewa (Hopi & Cherokee)
A bird rises upward with prayers for life-giving rain clouds as a dragonfly flutters nearby announcing the coming rain. They play above the clouds as blessings of moisture are given.
As one of the largest birds in the southwest, the Eagle embodies great strength and courage. For the Hopi people, the Eagle is a messenger to the spirit world. Eagle feathers are used in rituals to create Paaho or prayer feathers that are created for good blessings and prayers to all in this world.