© 2017 SuZan Alexander, Digital Photography.

In Wells Wednesday - Part 2, I shared the Cruciform Abstraction image from the Wells of Renewal and Decay series. (You can find all of the Wells Wednesday posts linked below.) This week, I want to share another image from the series. Actually, it is two different images from two different wells, but they seem to have a similar theme, so I paired them up as a bonus.

Mystic of the Well and Warrior of the Well

I once heard someone say that there is usually a human form or face in every abstract. Interesting don’t you think? Ever since I heard that, I look for the representation in every piece of abstract art I encounter. In my non-scientific study, I have GENERALLY found this statement to be true. So, of course, these stock tank surfaces are no exception in yielding forms and faces, albeit not always a human form, on the surfaces of the wells. Some of the figures are playful, some are sobering, and some are sinister. So let’s begin with a couple of forms with a nod to the indigenous cultures of the Southwestern United States.

MYSTIC OF THE WELL

This impish little figure that has emerged from the rusty surface reminds me of the Kokopelli (koh-koh-pell-ee) glyphs that have survived from the ancient Anasazi Indian mythology. The Kokopelli figures are whimsical figures that typically represents fertility, replenishment, music, dance, and mischief. I rather like the thought that this spirit is bringing fertility, replenishment, and a whole lot of whimsy to the sojourners at this well.

WARRIOR OF THE WELL

When I saw these shapes on the well, I’m pretty sure I gasped out loud. They remind me of petroglyphs or even cave paintings. It just has the implied feeling of indigenous cultures of the past, as well as a lot of implied action with the diagonal streaks of red lines dashing through the composition.

If you would like to see the final images I chose for the Wells of Renewal and Decay series, be sure to visit the gallery HERE.

Again, I could share so much more, but I want to leave room for your story. I want you to find the stories and connections that are meaningful to you. The words and thoughts I have shared here are intended to help you find that story rather than lead you to only one story.

I hope you will visit each Wednesday. Bring your own vision. Leave a comment. Tell me what you see in the graffiti of time.

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