Since the drum is often the only instrument used in our sacred rites, I should perhaps tell you here why it is especially sacred and important to us. It is because the round form of the drum represents the whole universe, and its steady strong beat is the pulse, the heart, throbbing at the center of the universe. It is as the voice of Wakan Tanka, and this sound stirs us and helps us to understand the mystery and power of all things.
Black Elk Indian Spirit , Thomas Yellowtail, Michael Oren Fitzgerald
This etching is inspired by a photo taken at the FDR Pow Wow in New York. This took place before Grand Entry when drummers and dancers were just arriving. The drum is the heartbeat of our PowWows. Here, one Native brother brings the heartbeat to the Circle. The Drum Group is (formerly) the Black Bear Singers
Materials
Pyrographic etching in plywood. Painted with water color, gouache and improvisational use of various color sources.
Measurements
With frame: 39.5 cm x 31 (15.55 " by 12") Without frame: 29.5 cm x 21 cm (11.61" by 8.26")
Click on any photo to see a close up of the piece.