Dream Songs and Ceremony: Reflections on Traditional California Indian Dance - Hardcover

LePena, Frank

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1890771791 ISBN 13: 9781890771799

Publisher: Heyday Books, 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.

Edition details

• Publisher: Heyday Books
• Publication date: 2004
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1890771791
• ISBN 13: 9781890771799
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 45