Bear is one of the most represented animals in human cultures throughout time, all over the world. There are many meanings and interpretations. I am most drawn to american indian depictions, stories, and songs.
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| Vintage Ursa Major star map print |
Bear is one of my totem animals, and holds the north coordinate on my medicine wheel. Bear represents (for me), a time of healing and meditation, of embracing the dark days of Winter as a precious time to hibernate and reflect inward, in preparation for the renewal of Spring. The long Winter nights - the dreaming time - are a strong component of Bear presence, along with the stars we gaze upon, hinting at a deeper universe.
Bear has been represented in human art for thousands of years. And this includes beads and jewelry. I am focusing primarily on art here, along with a few samples of beads that have been inspired by Bear.
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| Hopi Kachina Mask: Hon / White Bear Kachina |
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| Haida Sea Bear Mask, Metropolitan Museum of Art |
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| Tlingit Totem Pole; photo by Tim Bean |
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| Ancient Haisla Bear totem; photo by Pete Ryan |
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| Hopi Kachina: Hon, White Bear |
Here is an anisnaabe song: Spirt Bear Song. Not too much to see in this video as the camera is positioned behind the drumming circle. But the song comes through nicely. :) I invite you to find a quiet moment and allow your heart to join in the drumbeat, and let the song sink in.
I hope you enjoyed this brief tour of Bear. How does Bear figure in your own life and work? I'd love to hear!
I loved seeing all the different representations of bear and the ideas of resting, dreaming and looking inward during the winter. Thank you for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteReally inspirational post; thank you for including the drum circle, Spirit Bear Song. I feel hibernation entering my heart now. Good night.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the blog and photos of the bears' representations. Thanks for putting it together.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! :)
DeleteI have seen so many of those Native american Bears in person out in the PNW!! brings back memories!! I love your little bear charm and the choice of glazes that you use- gives sucha rich textural feel!!
ReplyDeleteHow lucky you were able to experience them in person! I hope some day to visit the area. And thank you for your comment about my Bear totem pendant. :)
DeleteWow, that just blew me away! Thank you for all of that amazing art nerd research. I love nerds, BTW.
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