JAKE WALLER II
Expressing deep ancestral memory through evocative painting, his work resonates with heartfelt spirit.
JAKE WALLER II - Opan Tonka
Description of Art
The Big Drum- Is the first piece of artwork I created after the loss of my father, Meen-kon-shee (spot on elks neck), Jake Waller. The picture represents the first place you go on the other side after you die. The Big Drum is the first place that you meet with your ancestors to sing the ancient songs of our Osage people. This painting represents the first song my father sang with his Osage Ancestors. Connected-This picture represents an artistic expression of photography from the many years of life my wife and I spent on the prairie working with a bison herd. The connection between the land, bison, and our relationship with the herd.
Artist Biography
Born into the Wah-Tian-Kah band of Blackdog Osages from the Zon-Zo-Li Village and the Opan (Elk Clan). I grew up in the Osage ways and teachings of my Father, Uncle and Osage Elders. I was named into the Big Moon East Moon Native American Church within my first year of life. I was inducted into the E-Lon-Ska society at three and a half years old where I have participated for the last 34 years as much as my travels all over in life have allowed me. I create art and express myself artistically for my wife, children, family and Osage decendants. These things are one way that I work to be a part of an eternal line of decendants, the Original Osage Prayer.
