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Akinaa Bimadezin ~ My Relations

In the Summer of 2003 I was commissioned by Lloyd Matthew Haines to create a 20 foot sculpture from a standing dead White Oak Tree. At first glance the big tree gave me an indication of how my design would evolve, from the juncture of the first large branch down to the base. The very uniform trunk offered freedom to create while the divergence of the branch above would dictate form. This and Mr. Haines' desire that the sculpture honor the Tree, our Wildlife and the Native Peoples who once lived in the area gave me the spectrum to create.

My first vision was that of a grand three dimensional Eagle involving the branch and above. There followed an integral design pattern containing clan and human images important in my own Anishinabe heritage, and what I have learned of Northwestern Native culture. The combination of totem (clan) and human figures I felt would represent the desired significance.

At the base of the tree a geometric triangular pattern has been carved around the circumference representing the Earth. At this level is the Frog and a floral pattern. As we honor the Earth, our Grandmother, as the giver of life so must we honor Woman. She is carved physically connected to the Earth pattern. Prominent at Woman's side is Man.

Russell Beebe

January 27, 2004