A Single Tear

Paintings can have all sorts of meanings. Usually, painters use these pieces of art to express themselves on things they cannot normally do. Sometimes, it can also be a product of imagination. At times, they want to visualize a series of events into one artwork. These paintings turn out to be abstracts but along the lines and colors used, there is still a hidden meaning enclosed in them. This what makes paintings interesting and mysterious.

The lithograph represents the typical Indian leader amidst struggles and tests of life. No matter how strong and determined a leader is, he still has his weak moments and the snow and wind symbolize the stumbling blocks. But no matter how difficult it may seem to be, the leader is always a leader and he must not let his fears bring him down.

The Indian Chief showed his strength by leading his people in their exodus. Even if he is uncertain of what is about to come, he kept his people together and hand in hand, they are to face the challenges.

Just by his name alone, I think Mr. Echohawk is an Indian himself. If not, he probably has strong affiliations with Native Americans. This Indian Chief which he portrayed intensely could be his ancestors. Maybe he learned of their story about the hard times undergone by the American Indians not so long ago.

And since he was not there and could not be there, he imagined what might have taken place through this painting. Since it is difficult or impossible to describe through paintings the feelings of this Indian Chief, he used a single tear to speak for his emotions.

The single tear that streamed from this warrior’s face signifies leadership. It does not mean that a good leader would not feel apprehensions anymore. Further, it does not mean it would make the Indian Chief less of a man if a tear drops from his face. Like a normal human

A Single Tear     2

being and any other leader, he feels scared too. But this Indian Chief is driven by willpower and fortitude to deliver his people to safety. The leader also felt fear but his responsibility to his people vanquished these feelings of doubt and insecurity to what the future holds.

The single tear reveals the imperfection of the human race regardless of our color and tribe. By imperfection, it means that each person despite of his stature and position becomes fragile sometimes. The Indian Chief in the painting is experiencing vulnerability but he must live up to his dignity and sense of worth.

As to his case, what urged him not to give up is for the sake of his people who look up to him being the person in command. If he surrenders, then his people would lose hope. His courage marks the fate of the American Indians.

The single tear also denotes faith and hope. Faith in that after the storm, the sun will shine for the Indian Chief and his people. Faith that the snow and wind is only temporary and it will end somehow. Hope is a positive outlook from which they get their strength to surpass all these trials and hardships. Hope that a brighter life is in store for the native community.

History tells us that the Native Americans have a rich past which upholds both their ups and downs. They acknowledged their victories and defeats and learned from these experiences which made them a stronger community despite chauvinism and discrimination from the whites. What is important for them is their unity and pride as a race of principled people.

 Finally, I really view this painting by Mr. Echohawk as an emotional one. It portrays a mixture of passion and sentiment. I wish my readers can see this painting for themselves. Rest assured that anybody can definitely empathize with me. Just like any struggling race, the American Indians are trying their best to save their bloodline in the midst of globalization and modernity. This trait is the one I truly appreciate.