Thunderbird Warrior

Description:
The coming of thunder in the spring is a gift from the Thunderbeings, a promise of renewal and awakening. It marks a spiritual salve for the losses of the past year, a healing after the harsh and unforgiving winters. This season brings a time for warriors to heal, grow strong again, and prepare. The return of the Thunderbeings provides the recharge needed for a warrior to rise once more, to embody courage and selflessness for the people.

Artist Mike Holden carries “Coming of Thunder” as his traditional spirit name. He is also the son of a lightning strike survivor who carries a name to honor the Thunderbeings: Lead Thunderbird Man. The Thunderbird is depicted in this painting to represent the unseen bringers of thunder and lightning. The rifles symbolize the harnessed power of the Thunderbeings, once believed to be powerful instruments meant to provide for and protect the people. Behind the warrior is the sun, which returns along with the thunder to renew the warrior’s strength.