My work is neo-traditional in terms of form, materials and technique. That said, its intent is far more contemporary: it is about being a catalyst for dialogue addressing inner experience and/or societal circumstances. Clearly, personal issues affect our social lives and vice versa. The common denominator of both is to illuminate circumstances that help us be the best person, tribe, or nation that we can be. If that necessitates a focus on an unpleasant reality, so be it. Life is not always pretty, nor is every solution neat and simple. I adhere to the tenet that one should never lose the lesson in any important situation, whether positive or negative. While the more demanding work is based on concepts, I also favor the exploration of native, Lakota and Western art histories in the process. Further, attention to color theory, line and other elements are never far behind the social commentary. After all, if the piece doesn't cause a stir, there is no chance for dialogue.

Generating the Winds fits squarely into the body of work I consider important. It draws from our own ethnographic art history. First, its form is shaped like a protective cape worn by some historic Lakota warriors. The upper border's rendition of the cosmos and the lower red line signifying Maka, Mother Earth, are in keeping with these kinds of visionary paintings. Instead of a totem animal or bird there is a Sun Dance vignette. It would look historic were it not for the contemporary cars, wind based energy generators and, of course, the solar panels on the homes.

The message is that the Sun, Wi, has always been a source of personal and spiritual strength and renewal for our peoples. Utilizing this renewable energy resource is consonant with our traditions and not destructive to our environment. A corollary is that we have always considered the Wind, Tate, as a special force to be emulated. Consider how many shields or visionary paintings include the Power of The West Wind as evidenced by the Thunderbird and hail. They inspired us to fight for our homes and land. Paying attention to this source of energy is also in keeping with our traditions. I am particularly pleased that our reservation, The Rosebud, is the first to see the future. It is hoped that other tribes will have the funding to do so as well.

Thomas Haukaas