Cerem Staff Carrier Harrison Begay

The artwork presents a central figure on horseback set against a stylized landscape. The rider, depicted with a youthful countenance and adorned in traditional regalia – a feathered headdress, beaded necklace, and patterned vest – raises one arm in what appears to be a gesture of greeting or ceremonial display. He is mounted on a dappled grey horse, rendered with an energetic dynamism that suggests movement. The saddle and bridle are simple but functional, indicating practicality rather than elaborate ornamentation.
The background is characterized by a simplified horizon line punctuated by stylized clouds and a prominent rainbow arching across the composition. Two biplanes, seemingly suspended in the sky, flank the rainbow; their presence introduces a jarring juxtaposition of traditional imagery with modern technology. The lower portion of the scene features sparse vegetation – a cluster of dry grasses and a single, angular shrub – grounding the figures within a recognizable, albeit abstracted, environment.
The color palette is restrained, dominated by muted earth tones contrasted with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows in the headdress and vest. This limited range contributes to a sense of formality and symbolic weight. The artist’s use of clear outlines and flat planes creates a graphic quality that emphasizes the two-dimensional nature of the work.
Subtexts within this painting are complex. The riders posture and attire suggest a position of honor or leadership, possibly representing a ceremonial role within his community. The inclusion of biplanes introduces an element of cultural collision – a visual representation of the encounter between indigenous traditions and encroaching modernity. This juxtaposition could be interpreted as a commentary on the impact of technological advancement upon traditional ways of life, hinting at themes of change, adaptation, or perhaps even loss. The rainbow itself, often associated with hope and promise, is framed by these mechanical intrusions, adding another layer to this nuanced narrative. Ultimately, the work seems to explore the intersection of heritage and progress, tradition and innovation, within a specific cultural context.