I painted this a few months ago, but just got around to getting some decent photos where the colors looked more accurate.

Here's a poem written by my wife and I while I was painting her. It was a lot of the inspiration while I was painting. I hope you like it.

******

Bearing his weight on their shoulders
his warriors carried him in bittersweet silence
a crimson badge of honor painted across his unmoving chest

The strong and steady rhythm of drums echoes the heart of the tribe

She prepares for one final celebration
eighteen feathers alight her head of silver strands
wise fingers adorn thin skin with yellow pigment

Ceremonial flames ignite as the sun settles behind the flat horizon

Tonight’s dance will hold joy and mourning
on this last homecoming