Indigenous art - Wisdom [Beaver]: For our Leaders

Wisdom [Beaver]: For our Leaders

original acrylic on canvas, 2016
48" x 60" 

by First Nations Anishinaabe Artist Donna Langhorne 

Wisdom is the application of knowledge for beneficial outcomes. The Beaver well exemplifies this quality. It uses its teeth to acquire the material for habitat construction, and modifies its ecology in the process. Failure to do so renders its overgrown teeth useless and puts its well-being in jeopardy. In this Vision, the Beaver is the inspiration that preserves the integrity of our leadership - our chiefs, elders and knowledge keepers - in the ongoing battle for sovereignty and the protection of our many traditions. The scene is framed by the richness of the environment, which flourishes when the course of wisdom is followed and, as evidenced by the presence of the eagle, lovingly applied.

This original is part of a series of seven paintings and can be purchased on its own for $7,500 or the full series for $45,000. A limited series of 11"x14" prints is also available.