This painting is inspired by Lava Falls, the Granddaddy of all rapids in Grand Canyon. It’s a muddy river with storm clouds brewing to add to the already ominous feeling that you experience in this moment, just before plunging into the frothing waters below. The river boils, churns and swirls in an unpredictable path that will hopefully funnel you just to the right of the Ledge Hole, a feature at the top of the rapid that would surely shred your boat and everything in it to a useless pile of twisted metal and blown out rubber or splintered wood and fiberglass if you are so unfortunate to be in a dory . 😉 . If you have the courage to take your eyes off the quickening entry, maybe you can sneak a glance up at the Eye of Odin, a window in the columnar jointing formed by the ancient lava flows. The window can only be seen from the river, just before you’re about to drop into the rapid and cannot be seen from shore or the scout.
Odin is the god of war and death according to Norse Mythology. Upon visiting the Well of Wisdom, Odin begged Mimir (the well custodian) for a drink. Mimir said he must pay for it with one of his eyes which Odin then gave him. With his new found wisdom, Odin brought to mankind the runic alphabet and poetry. Whether or not you are able to make contact with the Eye of Odin in this highly charged moment of focus and fate, The Eye sees All who dare to pass through Lava Fall’s Gate!!!
Original painting in private collection
Matted, signed and numbered archival prints available: 20×30, 16×24 or 11×17 and 5×7 art card
Hi, through the Arizona River Runners Facebook site I became aware of these paintings.
I noticed a number of them have the originals available at the West of the Moon Gallery in Flagstaff and I was wondering what the price was for “The Eye of Odin” painting?
Thank you,
Your art just blows me away, Erica, with its dazzling use of color and the energy it conveys. I hope one day to see these full size in person! (Deet)