Vickers, Roy Henry – Look to the Mountain (end Roy Henry Vickers

The composition presents a landscape dominated by three monumental vertical structures positioned against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The palette is restrained, primarily utilizing muted pinks and purples for the sky and ground plane, contrasted with the deep maroon tones of the upright forms. A delicate scattering of white dots suggests snowfall or perhaps a gentle haze permeating the atmosphere.
The central element consists of these towering structures, which appear to be stylized totem poles. Each pole is densely carved with intricate figures – humanoid shapes, animals, and abstract motifs – arranged in stacked registers. The details within the carvings are somewhat softened by the printmaking technique, lending them a dreamlike quality rather than sharp definition. The central pole features an avian figure perched near its apex, seemingly observing the scene below.
The mountains behind the poles are rendered with simplified forms and minimal detail, their peaks blending into the sky. This reduction in detail emphasizes the scale of the structures in the foreground and creates a sense of distance and grandeur. The horizon line is relatively low, further accentuating the height of the totem-like figures.
Subtly, theres an interplay between the man-made and the natural world. The poles, clearly products of human artistry and cultural significance, are placed within a vast, imposing landscape. This juxtaposition might suggest themes of connection to ancestral heritage, reverence for nature, or perhaps even a commentary on humanity’s place within the larger environment. The muted color scheme contributes to an overall feeling of quiet contemplation and solemnity. The falling snow adds a layer of transience and fragility to the scene, hinting at the passage of time and the enduring power of tradition against the backdrop of a changing world.