An extraordinary gift from Don Kakaygeesick

Last month when I visited northern Minnesota, Don Kakaygeesick gave me this magnificent original watercolor painting of his.

It is a good example of the Woodlands School of Art in that the elements are drawn from nature, the geometric figures and black lines on the surface of the water give a kind of x-ray vision or extra dimension, and the subject matter holds a story.

The Ojibway story of the duck takes on personal significance because I know Don Kakaygeesick belongs to the Duck Clan. Zhiishiib (Szhee-sheeb).

The duck is a symbol of strength and endurance. There are many variations to the story of the duck who refuses to fly south when it turns cold in the fall. But all of the versions of this story come to an end when the duck convinces the North Wind that he can survive the harshest winter conditions. The legend teaches self-reliance, resourcefulness, and resilence.

I am honored to receive this gift in friendship.

And I wanted to share the beauty of Don Kakaygeesick’s art with you.

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I will be in conversation with Laurie Hertzel about THE LAND OF EVERLASTING SKY on Tuesday, August 11, at 7 pm at Magers & Quinn, 3038 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis. The event is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required.

Thanks to readers who have left reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. Greatly appreciated!