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263 Standing Spirits, 1999 Acrylic on canvas 48″ (h) × 36″ (w) from the collection of Paul Dillaway. Standing Spirits is a painting from the series Los Cielos completed in 2000. This body of work made up of over fifty paintings exemplifies my experience in ceremony. The horizon line, the rising of the sun and setting of the moon were my inspiration. Each year as we traveled down the rocky road to ceremony we could see the standing rock elders—tall, strong, and everlasting, reminding us of our ancestors and spirit guides. As we made the journey to complete our commitment we prayed to remember these standing spirits and to stand tall for our families, the earth, and the traditions. In prayer we gazed skyward to see the standing spirits among the clouds— appearing and disappearing. Through our offering we hoped to emulate their illusive strength and courage. The sacrifice was hard and sometimes we would fall. It was then that we called on these spirits for inspiration, protection, and guidance. We asked to see ourselves clearly and to learn how to follow our true path. Now, we can sit by the roaring ocean or a flowing landscape and remember the times that the standing spirits were our good guides and helpers. If we center ourselves and concentrate on the blessings we received and the lessons we learned we can renew our commitment to stand tall, be courageous and generous, live well, and find happiness. “Standing Spirits” is a record of my memories in ceremony where I learned to love the circle and the joy of commitment. I offer “Standing Spirits” with my sincere hope that it will bring you inspiration, peace, and happiness. Artist’s Statement Linda Vallejo ...

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