This skull represents the Dakota, one of the seven council fires. These Northern Plains Indians were proud people who lived a little over 100 years ago. Buffalo skulls held a great spiritual significance in ceremonies, sun dance, and prayer. They represented in tangible form “Wakan Tanka” (The Great Spirit) who oversaw the wellbeing of the tribal members in the physical world and in the spiritual world.
It is with deep respect for these people that Gail creates her skulls. Each one is hand crafted from natural materials gathered throughout her travels. The spirit of each season is captured in autumn leaves, spring and summer flowers, and grasses.
Gail was born and raised in Custer, SD. After living in Montana for 17 years, she moved back to the beautiful Black Hills. She has always had a love of nature and wildlife. Hiking and gardening provide endless hours of gathering and pressing all kinds of flowers and leaves. It is through the encouragement and observation of artistic friends that Gail started to create her botanical art. Her work can be found in galleries in Custer and throughout the Black Hills.
