| "Black Sunset" 8x10" acrylic on wood (C) Cara Bevan 2009 |
| Wolves have been the fascination of man ever since the formation of society. Even before humans learned to communicate through speech, we’ve shared similarities to them. Wolves have a hierarchy and social status among the pack, like people do. They have complex ways of communications through body language and vocalizations. They have strategy in their actions and, although it may be protested, a well developed thought process. These qualities are what drew man to, and away, from these great creatures. Throughout the creation of society, man has relied on wolves. In the beginning, friendly wolves became companions and the ancestors to our dogs today. Even the wolves unwilling to tolerate us still helped. They led us to food and, although bad it seems, helped even out the population of wildlife and human kind. The wolves were respected for their power, speed, and intelligence. Back then, men didn’t just admire the wolf, they worshipped it. Then something changed. Man learned to control nature and the very creature they loved became their enemy. It started in Europe but it wasn’t long before the fear spread. Historians speculate that the intelligence and strength the wolf possessed gripped the deep intangible fears in the human heart. Grim legends formed and horrid stories were told. The truth became an exaggeration and all love held for the wolf was gone. The men, afraid to lose their society to a creature so strong, hunted their once beloved companions. Even royalty put bounties on their fur and meat. Because of the paranoia, wolves are scarce or extinct in Europe and fighting for survival in other lands. Today this has changed. It’s only been a few decades since the wolf has come back into the spotlight, but with a different glow. Stigmas are being erased and myths are being debunked. Wolves are being protected in reserves as their populations rise. Their fur has been banned for sale in most places, even though it still appears. Respect has returned but not without a price. Wolves are still being hunted in parts of the United States, particularly in Alaska where the control over poachers is slack, and it other countries without tight policies. Is it fear that drives the trigger finger to shoot a mother and her pups? If we keep in mind the wonder and beauty of these creatures, we will never see the wolf disappear with the sunset. |
All artwork and information (C) to Cara Bevan and Art from the Heart. All images (C) 2007-2010. Copying
without permission is punishable by law. Please contact me at NobleD9C@aol.com if you have any questions.
without permission is punishable by law. Please contact me at NobleD9C@aol.com if you have any questions.