Sapakay was a Chumash shaman who lived in the mid 19th century. During that time, the magic he practiced was increasingly being challenged by the Christianized people of his culture. He eventually made the decision to retire and in his final act as a shaman, he burned all his magic baskets before them all and then said to his people, ”All has ended now--all the practices in which we indulged for our salvation or diversion, for there are few now who believe in them, and the next generation will not endure the hardship and suffering that is necessary to maintain them.” (Harrington/ Blackburn, 1975, p. 268)

The Chumash were highly developed in the art of basketry. A black tar known today as asphaltum was abundant along the shore. They would use it to waterproof the inside of a basket which enabled them to both store and carry water. The also used asphaltum to line their plank boats to provide a seal and increase buoyancy. The black portions on this painting make reference to this ingenuity. At the same time it functions metaphorically in that it covers images from the old religion.

Sapakay’s Dream
Four 2”x4” Framed Panels
26”x102”
Molding Paste and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
1998
$2400.