Aaw017 Nancy Wood Taber Wheels of Change sqs

The composition presents a layered visual narrative centered around equine figures and symbolic motifs. The artist has divided the canvas into distinct zones, creating a fragmented yet unified whole. A dominant presence is established by two horses, depicted in profile and seemingly emerging from separate planes of existence. One horse, rendered in warm earth tones, appears to surge forward with considerable energy; its musculature suggests power and momentum. The second horse, lighter in color and partially obscured, seems to be dissolving into a spectral form, hinting at transition or transformation.
The background is equally complex. A stylized mountain range sits beneath a pale yellow orb that evokes the sun or moon. Above this, a field of blue is punctuated by circular forms reminiscent of stars or celestial bodies. The lower portion of the canvas features a horizontal band of turquoise representing water, with geometric markings along its edge suggesting an industrial or technological element.
A recurring motif – a handprint – appears twice within the work. One is rendered in vibrant green and positioned prominently in the upper left quadrant, seemingly detached from the central action. The second handprint is integrated into a circular design that overlays both horses, acting as a focal point for the composition. This circular emblem incorporates geometric patterns reminiscent of Native American textiles or ceremonial objects.
The subtexts within this painting appear to revolve around themes of change, transition, and cultural heritage. The juxtaposition of the solid, forward-moving horse with its dissolving counterpart suggests a process of evolution or displacement. The inclusion of the handprint motif likely alludes to ancestral connection, spiritual significance, or perhaps a gesture of acknowledgement towards indigenous cultures. The industrial elements at the bottom introduce a layer of commentary on modernity and its impact on traditional ways of life.
The fragmented structure of the painting itself reinforces the idea of disruption and reassembly – a visual metaphor for societal shifts and the blending of disparate influences. Overall, the work conveys a sense of dynamism and complexity, inviting contemplation on themes of identity, progress, and the enduring power of cultural memory.