Bear Clan Basswood Disk

Katydid Bear Clan Cookie

Haudenosaunee Bear Clan Basswood Disk, Pyrography with Acrylic

The bear is one of the most popular animal by both natives and non-natives, In Haudenosaunee culture they are the Keepers of the Medicine. In many other cultures they are admired for their loyalty to family and for their foraging skills.

I have been working on several projects at a time, but this one involves some more thought. As indigenous people, we have an astute awareness with nature and the close bond with our immediate environment. We grow a deep connection with the things around us, especially when we are growing up. This could be a big rock with distinctive features. It could be a small grade change in the grade of a grassy surface, or it could be a particular tree, as in this case.

A friend of mine had a very intimate relationship with a particular maple tree on their reserve. This tree was a lifetime friend. This tree would provide shelter from when the elements were becoming volatile with heat, wind, and/or rain. It was there to serve as a confidant when life's troubles would become too much to share with anyone else. Non judgmental, unassuming, and sworn to secrecy, this partner had the trust of a dear uncle.

The new custodians of the land had no regard for the young girl or her uncle and decided to take down the uncle and inadvertently sever the lifelong bond.

The girl grew up and became older and was able to take a totem of her uncle. It was brought to me, and I was honored to be bestowed the chance to make it an invaluable charm for her new home.

This piece is 10" piece of silver maple with Haudenosaunee bear clan design adorned with Eastern Woodlands raised beadwork influenced floral designs of strawberries and a few esoteric symbols with deep intricate value.