The Great Migration

A half size vegetable tanned cowhide is stretched across juniper tree branches and secured using strips of leather. Upon the surface of the leather is a herd of American bison. The leader and protector of the herd is down front and center staring eye to eye with the viewer to size up the amount of threat presented to the herd. He is depicted in amazing realistic detail almost ever hair can be counted and his eyes shine with curiosity and purpose. Coming up behind him in challenge is a younger bull with his tail raised and tongue out bellowing his intention to take control. To the front of the Leader is a mother Bison who has stopped to nurse her white calf. The white buffalo has always been a special talisman to the Native Americans believing that it brings hope and promise of better days. Much like the American Bison returning from the brink of extinction through the hard work of many ranchers and dedicated park rangers. The rest of the herd gently fades in its details to the far horizon where only silhouettes can be detected. A note of interest is that the cow's original ranch brand and individual number brand can still be seen in the leather.