4 earth, 40x40cm oil on panel

In the heart of Santa Fe, a place where history and art dance hand in hand, I stumbled upon a stone wall that inspired my latest work, "4 Earth." This 40x40cm oil on panel painting is my tribute to the enchanting beauty and rich culture of Santa Fe. It was here that I discovered a captivating ornament bearing the ancient sun symbol of Zia, a reflection of the enduring spirit and values of the Zia people.

The Zia sun symbol, with its four groups of rays, each consisting of four rays, captures the essence of balance and harmony. The Zia believed in the profound significance of the number four, representing the gifts bestowed upon them by the giver of all good. These gifts, woven into the very fabric of life, are the four directions—North, East, South, and West; the four phases of life—childhood, youth, middle age, and old age; the four seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter; and the four parts of the day—sunrise, noon, evening, and night.

In "4 Earth," I sought to encapsulate this circle of life and love, a motif with neither beginning nor end, echoing the Zia philosophy. Through vibrant colors and textured brushstrokes, the painting invites viewers to explore the interconnectedness of nature and humanity, mirroring the ever-present backdrop of the Santa Fe landscape. This piece not only serves as a visual homage but also as a reminder of the timeless wisdom imparted by the Zia people, encouraging us all to honor and preserve the gifts of our Earth.