Wico Hunkake Hihakab Mani

[John Reidy]

It has been a while since I've posted a portrait. I feel this is different from most portraits and I wanted to share.

The title is Sioux, and means in a fashion, "I walk with my ancestors in respect of their ways." From what I understand, there are no english words to accurately translate explicitly.

The subject requested the clothes and the background as they hold meaning to him. He is by birth Irish / Catholic. By choice he is Sioux. Over the last 20 years or so, he has been seeking his path with the Sioux nation. He has become a priest in their family.

The portrait started out at a size of 40" x 60". Three quarters of the way through, my client and I decided to divide the portrait into two panels, which is how I have it represented here.

The background is Bear Butte, a Holy place for the Sioux. An immature Golden Eagle is in the sky. The subject identifies closely with that bird. The field has sage depicted, which is a plant used in religious ceremonies.

I feel particularly proud of this piece. Not for the manner that it is painted or created but because it holds such a true and special place in my clients heart.