In this new series, I retell the the Cherokee folktale How They Brought Back Tobacco. This myth tells about the near-extinction of our people when we were on the verge of losing The Ancient One or the Old Tobacco plant, a sacred plant that was essential for our survival.
Each block in my block printing process is first sketched with graphite and next carved by hand. This block is then pressed onto handmade cotton paper and layered with my own unique monotype printing process.
If you read my first post on the Cherokee myth How They Brought Back Tobacco you will remember the power the Hummingbird holds simply by listening to herself over all others.
Spirit Pattern symbolizes our need to listen to each of our own Star Paths. Guideposts are placed in front of us as we walk through our lives in order to direct us to the Divine. The Sacred Hand reminds us not to underestimate our power and ability to be change-makers in this world. The four directions symbols ground us on our earthly path and a sky-bound rainbow lends hope and heavenly vision.
This piece can be found at Cielo Handcrafted on Canyon Road in Santa Fe, New Mexico.