Dream Songs and Ceremony - Hardcover

Frank Lapena

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1890771791 ISBN 13: 9781890771799

Publisher: Heyday, 2004

Synopsis

This collection of paintings by acclaimed artist Frank LaPena draws upon the symbols of California Indian dances--sacred events that cannot be photographed or videotaped. Himself a Nomtipom Wintu dancer, singer, and ceremonial leader, LaPena complements his vibrant paintings with an introduction and commentary.

Concentrating on the dance traditions of the Upper Sacramento Valley and Sierra foothills, LaPena discusses how being an Indian dancer has influenced him physically, spiritually, and socially. His paintings portray ceremonial and sacred elements from all three realms, with fascinating stories infused in every image.

About this title

About the Author:

Frank LaPena, an internationally exhibited painter and published poet, was born in 1937 in San Francisco. As a young man he became interested in the song, dance, and ceremonial traditions of his tribe. He has worked with the elders of the Nomtipom Wintu, the Nomlaki Wintun of northern California, and elders of neighboring tribes, and he is a founding member of the Maidu Dancers and Traditionalists, dedicated to the revival and preservation of these Native arts.

Review:

''Frank LaPena's work is brilliant testimony--testimony of cultural endurance and transformation--all done with such stupendous beauty. Witness this book and say with me, 'Thank you, Frank LaPena.''' --Greg Sarris, author of Grand Avenue, Watermelon Nights, and Mabel McKay: Weaving the Dream

''Frank LaPena's book is the closest thing to a prayer that any combination of words and art can be. Its sensitive evocation of place, and the ancient relationships of Native people to a living landscape, is truly marvelous. I can think of no other book in recent years which succeeds so well on so many levels.'' --Joseph Bruchac, poet and editor

About this edition

• Publisher: Heyday
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 1890771791
• ISBN 13: 9781890771799
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 48