lrsCrossPenniAnne-TheMorningStar Pennie Anne Cross

Here we observe a composition centered around a female figure positioned atop a rocky precipice. The background is dominated by a dramatic sky filled with swirling clouds illuminated by a bright, unseen light source – likely intended to represent dawn or a celestial event. This creates a sense of grandeur and spiritual significance.
The woman stands tall, her posture conveying authority and strength. She wears a flowing white garment that drapes elegantly around her form, suggesting both vulnerability and resilience. A feathered staff is held in her right hand; it appears as an extension of her power and connection to the natural world. Her dark hair streams out behind her, caught by an unseen wind, adding dynamism to the scene.
Surrounding her are three wolves. Two are positioned on a higher level of the rock formation, facing outwards and emitting howls that seem directed towards the sky or beyond the frame. A third wolf stands closer to the viewer at the base of the precipice, its gaze fixed forward with an expression that could be interpreted as vigilance or anticipation. The artist has rendered these animals with meticulous detail, emphasizing their musculature and fur texture, which contributes to a feeling of wildness and untamed power.
The color palette is largely muted, dominated by earthy tones – browns, grays, and creams – which reinforce the connection to nature. The stark contrast between the woman’s white attire and the dark background creates a focal point, drawing attention to her central role in the composition.
Subtexts within this work seem to explore themes of feminine power, spirituality, and the relationship between humanity and the natural world. The wolves likely symbolize loyalty, instinct, and perhaps a connection to ancestral spirits or primal forces. The woman’s elevated position suggests a guardian figure, a protector of both her people and the land she inhabits. The overall impression is one of reverence for nature and an acknowledgement of the strength and wisdom found within it. The composition evokes a sense of mystery and invites contemplation on themes of identity, belonging, and the enduring power of tradition.