Description
Polik-Mana Watching The Frogs Go By is a printer’s proof with appropriate chop marks in the lower left. This is a seven stone hand-pulled lithograph printed on grey Rives paper, which is mold-made in France. There were three printer’s proofs made. Naravisa Press made two additional printer’s proofs for their own records. This is one of those two NPI printer’s proofs. Original print documentation from the printer accompanies this work.
A printer’s proof is that first copy taken from the original work of art from which limited edition prints are made. Typically, the printer makes only a handful of printer’s proofs, making these only one step removed from the original work of art and exceedingly rare.
The style and content of Dawangyumptewa’s work are reflective of his Hopi background and Water Clan affiliation. “The majority of my paintings are thought of as mythical or spiritual subject pieces. By allowing the viewer to play and expand their imagination, the discovery of a mystical environment in the mind’s eye is the ultimate reason for creativity. My paintings reveal a part of myself through consciously developed symbolism, as well as traditional regional life ways. These are images that tell of my loves- family relationships, religious upbringing and observations.”
Dragonflies dance behind the stalks of corn as Polik-Mana watches the brightly colored frogs go by. The colors of this painting are so vibrant. The Polik-Mana, or Butterfly Maiden, although beautifully dressed is not really a katsina, but rather a dancer who appears in various Hopi ceremonies. Her attire usually includes a beautifully elaborate headdress (tablita).
This beautiful art work is protected with Museum Glass, an anti-reflection picture framing glass with conservation grade UV protection. With its nearly invisible finish, it effectively blocks up to 99% of harmful indoor and outdoor UV light rays so framed pieces remain clearer and brighter for longer. It is the best glazing option available for art, photographs and other important personal keepsakes.
Condition: Excellent- original condition
Provenance: Purchased from Naravisa Press, Santa, Fe New Mexico
Recommended Reading: Biographical Directory of Native American Painters by Patrick D. Lester.
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