Ursa’s dream

“72 x 48” OIL ON CANVAS

$28,000

"Ursa's Dream" captures the spirit of a Navajo legend of a bear ascending to the stars as Ursa Major. In the painting, the bear stands majestically with its head tilted in reverence, symbolizing its celestial journey. The artist masterfully uses both acrylic and oil paints, with a colorful underpainting of acrylic to layer in more color and vibrancy. This technique adds depth and richness to the scene, making the bear's ascent appear even more mystical and dreamlike.

As Ursa travels north, the direction of knowledge in Navajo tradition, the bear climbs the aurora borealis to become the constellation Ursa Major. The interplay of light and color in the painting captures the movement and energy of the bear's journey, creating a dynamic visual narrative. The trees in the foreground and the snowy landscape add to the sense of a sacred, natural setting. The painting beautifully merges cultural storytelling with natural phenomena, offering a visual homage to the legend and the awe-inspiring beauty of the northern lights.