"Family"
An Original Design by Lou-ann Neel © 2004
“Family” depicts the balance that is created when we embrace, acknowledge, and share the rich traditions and sacred teachings that our respective cultures provide for us.
The Cedar Rope that surrounds the Family represents the connection that Mother, Father, and Children have to Nature. Here, the Cedar Rope flows, transforms and emerges as the sacred Tree of Life, providing everything a family needs.
Within their respective Robes of Power, three abstracts of mythological beings are presented to show the Family’s connection to, and respect for, the creatures of Nature. Raven (Father’s blanket) represents creatures of the Sky Kingdom; Killer whale (Mother’s blanket) represents creatures of the Kingdom Beneath the Sea; and
Supernatural Sculpin (Child’s blanket) represents the creatures of the Spirit World.
The Family, Tree of Life, Cedar Rope, and Three Beings are all connected – as are each of us -- as individuals, as families, as communities, and as Nations.