Original Helen Hardin Petroglyph Painting, Early 1970s [SOLD]

This early mixed media work by Helen Hardin (Tsa-Sah-Wee-Eh) is a striking example of her innovative approach to Native American modernism. Created in the early 1970s, the painting was executed on Masonite with a variety of media including acrylic and sand with natural earthen pigments. It was signed by the artist in the lower right corner.

Rendered in a warm, earthen palette of rich browns and accented with soft blues, greens, and yellows, the composition features bold linear petroglyph motifs in bright white. At the center are two conjoined figures in black, joined at the shoulders with open ring-like legs, standing atop a red multi-legged beast with a radiant aura emanating from its head. Surrounding them are additional symbolic elements: a smaller black and white figure at lower left, a yellow-orange spiral, a small bird at lower center, and an intricate layering of geometric bands in the background, including hexagons, circles, squares, and zigzags.

This visually complex work reflects Hardin's signature blend of traditional imagery and contemporary abstraction, offering a compelling glimpse into the symbolic language and dynamic vision that defined her artistic legacy.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: This Original Helen Hardin Petroglyph Painting, Early 1970s is from a collector in Albuquerque.

ecommended Reading:  Changing Woman: The Life and Art of Helen Hardin by Jay Scott

TAGS: Helen Hardin, Santa Clara Pueblo, Pablita Velarde, Native American symbols, Native American Paintings, Acoma Pueblo