A Recent Question - Eagle Feathers

I recently had someone ask this question:

Q.I think the feathers in some of your paintings seem to be too large in relation to the man or woman's size. My eagle feathers aren't that big. Just wondering. By the way I think you're beautiful so this is kind of a backward compliment.

A.I always thought that I was exaggerating the size of the feathers (artistic license, LOL) but take a look at this photo I recently came across) WOW! Those are some feathers! Can you imagine the size of that bird?

Any other question? I'll be happy to give my opinion

Bon Voyage Hummingbirds

If you've been following me on Facebook, you know that I've been feeding the hummingbirds this summer. After over 140 lbs of sugar they are finally thinning out and making there way to sunny Mexico , Guatemala and there about.

Plains Indian Bladder Bag

Plains Indian Bladder Bag, 10 x 9, oil on board © K. Henderson

In the past, no part of a harvested animal went to waste. Bags like this were made from the bladder of an elk or deer. They could be highly decorated with quillwork and beads and might be carried on a belt. They were used to carry Quills or other small maker supplies and other small objects.

Crow Medicine - American Indian

Crow Medicine, oil on board, 10 x 8,  © K Henderson

The use of animals parts was a way to connect man with the the Spirit World. Using the talon of a hawk or eagle was a prayer to give the warrior the ability to strike his enemy as successfully as the bird strikes it's prey

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A Successful art show!

Quiet of the Moon, 30 x 30, oil on canvas

I'm pleased to announce that all participating artists in Gallery 822's annual Indian Market show enjoyed success. Large crowds attended the openings and art work was sold.

Indian Market Group show at Gallery 822, Santa Fe

When We Dream, 30 x 40, oil on linen

If you will be in Santa Fe for Indian Market next weekend, please be sure and stop by The Gallery at  822 on Canyon Road. 

All 14 of the gallery's artists will have new work. Most of them will be at the Artists Reception on Friday, Aug 20 5pm - 8pm. Stop by and say hello.

Since 1901 - American Indian

Since 1901, 30 x 40, oil on linen.
I really enjoyed creating the painting 'Indian' based on the logo for the Indian Motorcycle, so I painted this second, larger one.
This one shows an American Indian wearing a feathered headdress as the Indian in the logo.

SOLD

Spirit War - Ghost Shirt

Spirit War, 30 x 40, oil on canvas
American Indian prophet, Wovoka, began the Ghost Dance religion in an attempt to bring peace between the Indians and the Whites. It brought together element of Paiute, Christian, Shaker and Mormon religions.  From the latter, Wavoka made use of the Mormon Endowment Robe, a robe "emblazoned with sacred symbols… reputed to protect the wearer from Satan and physical harm"
The Ghost Shirt is painted with symbols as a prayer to ask for natures help in restoring Peace and Abundance. The shirt was also said to protect the wearer from bullets.

SOLD

Indian - American Indian

Finally, a new painting!

Indian, 22 x 28, oil on canvas

Indian was painted in honor of America's Pioneer Motorcycle, The Indian, which was first manufactured in 1901.

With this painting I am revisiting a series of artwork I did several years ago which included  figures along with product logos using American Indian images in the background 

To the Victor - American Indian

To The Victor, 36 x 30, oil on canvas
This painting shows a Plains Indian with a half-painted face wearing eagel feathers, a beaded shirt with Hair Drops and carrying a shield
Hair Drops are tufts of hair used to decorate shirts, leggings, robes and other items, It is said that they were first made from scalp hair but later horse hair was substituted

SOLD

Heart of Courage - American Indian

Heart of Courage, 36 x 36, oil on linen.
We've all seen old photos of American Indians in uniforms.There are many reasons for that. Of course we remember the scene from Dances with Wolves where the 'discarded' coat was pick up and became the possession of the new owner.
After a battle useful items would be taken including clothing. Not only was it practical but the items would be a sign of Victory.
Surplus military clothing was also given to the Indians when there were put on reservations.
And most importantly, lets not forget that the American Indians have fought in every war that this country has had.
Happy Independence Day everyone

SOLD

July Newsletter

Newsletter July 2010

Summer in the Sacramento Mountains lasts for about 30 day. We call it Summer, other folks call it June. The Monsoon season has started, cool weather and rain have returned. For those of you wanting to escape the heat of OK, TX or AZ think about coming to our New Mexico mountains

American Indian
Amulets and Talisman

This month I'm concentrating on a new series of small 8 x 10 oil paintings using amulets and talismans as my subject matter. Each piece is researched for historical accuracy and I provide the story behind each painting which can be seen on my blog.
I have completed 2 paintings and as each is finished they are posted on My Blog

I find the history of these small pieces very interesting and I hope you do too.
 
Greeley Stampede Western Art Show

You still have a few days left to see the Greeley Stampede Western Art show. It runs through July 4th
 

   
 Aug looks like it will be a busy month. Stay tuned for updates
Please go to my website to see information about the galleries that represent me

Subscribe to my Cowboy and Indian blog and you will be the first to see my new paintings and hear about upcoming shows
 
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http://www.khenderson.com/

Blog: http://khendersonart2.blogspot.com/

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Assiniboine Amulet - American Indian

Assiniboine Amulet, 8 x 10, oil on canvas

Small leather medicine pouches or amulets were made by the Plains Indians and worn around the neck or attached to clothing or shields. These bags could be plain or decorated with beads, shells etc. It's what was inside the bag that was most important. These small bags would contain protection, luck, and healing power. Stones, feathers, metal, animals claws or teeth, and herbs may be placed in these bags. Each was personal to its owner and would contain items that were significant to the individual.