Food for Thought

'Umiliak's Wife' 4x1.5" sterling silver overlay, fossilized walrus ivory, printer's ink

Kathleen Faulkner

'Umiliak's Wife' goes to the water's edge and calls the whales to the hunters.  The whale gives himself so the community can sustain themselves awhile longer. The hunters always only take what they need.  They are very grateful.

'My Aleut Friend' 5x3" sterling silver, found objects, fossilized walrus ivory, printer's ink

Kathleen Faulkner

'My Aleut Friend' paddles out in his baidarka looking for seal.  He is a very wise man;  he finds many but he only takes what he needs and always thanks them for their sacrifice.

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'My Friend's Sister' 5x2" sterling silver, rubber, bottle cap, garnets, fossilized walrus ivory, printer's ink

Kathleen Faulkner

'My Friend's Sister' weaves baskets that hold the berries that grow abundantly during the season.  She picks the berries but never takes more than she needs, sharing with Mother's other children.  She appreciates her good fortune.

'Mountain Girl' 6x3" sterling silver, linoleum, wood, coral

Kathleen Faulkner

'Mountain Girl' gets a glimpse of a world where everything is considered sacred and care is taken to live in harmony with Earth.  It works well.

Regarding Mother

"Snoqualmie Pass" 21x23" oil pastel, Kathleen Faulkner

It was deep into spring and we were heading over the pass. Suddenly, a last, late snowfall, early morning sunshine and a nice slice of wind swooped us. It was beautiful yet unnerving, as if the elements were emotions.

Snow is unusual for that time of year and I'm sure my state of mind added to the mood. Our friend had died and we were on our way to a funeral.  One minute deep in thought and gazing out the window then the next,  paying attention.   

It brought to mind some questions I wonder about from time to time:  Do trees feel pain?  Can animals  show compassion?   Does Mother Earth know when her children die and,  if so,  does she mourn?  

"Snoqualmie Pass II" 21x23" oil pastel, Kathleen Faulkner