Ghostwalker Nancy Wood Taber

The composition presents a layered visual narrative centered around a powerful feline presence. A cougar dominates the central space, its gaze directed outward with an intensity that suggests both alertness and quiet authority. The animals fur is rendered with meticulous detail, capturing the texture and light play on its coat.
Flanking the cougar are symbolic elements that enrich the work’s meaning. A large feather, prominently displayed to the left, evokes notions of spirituality, reverence, and connection to a higher power – common motifs in indigenous cultures. Adjacent to it is a patterned cloth, possibly representing tribal affiliation or ceremonial regalia, marked with a paw print. This placement reinforces the link between the animal and human identity. To the right, a decorated staff or pole, adorned with feathers and what appear to be leather bindings, further suggests ritualistic significance.
The lower portion of the image is structured by a geometric border composed of repeating triangular patterns, reminiscent of traditional Native American designs. Below this border, a silhouetted cougar strides forward, its paw prints trailing behind – a visual echo of the central figure and an indication of movement or journey. The dark background serves to isolate these elements, intensifying their impact and creating a sense of depth.
Subtly embedded within the composition is a signature, positioned near the base of the patterned cloth. This detail suggests a personal connection between the artist and the subject matter, hinting at a possible autobiographical element or an exploration of cultural heritage.
The overall effect conveys themes of strength, resilience, and spiritual kinship with nature. The work seems to explore the intersection of human identity and the natural world, suggesting a reverence for ancestral traditions and a deep connection to the animal kingdom. It is likely intended as a visual statement about belonging, protection, and the enduring power of cultural memory.