“Maiores” (Latin, “The
Elders”)
This piece has to do with ageism, the discrimination of those
older than oneself, for the sole reason that they are old. This
is reflective of a cultural loss of an ancient value and asset,
that of ‘The Elder’. This term is more popularly
interpreted as an older, wiser member of a clan, tribe or some
social group; one who is special within that group, known and respected
for their knowledge, experience and character.
What I see it to encompass is any human who has lived a long life
in terms of years. This includes respect for all experiences
and the knowledge and perspective that accompanies. Our
modern society values positive experiences almost to the exclusion
of negative ones. An elderly homeless person and a nursing
home invalid’s experiences hold little value compared to
someone who has either achieved economic success or maintained
their physical dignity into their late years. The former has as
much insight (if not a lot more) as the later.
“Maiores” shows the image
of an Elder in the center, colored gray, symbolizing wisdom. Shamans
and wizards are said to wear gray cloaks. They are surrounded
by an aura of hand sewn seed beads, painted iridescent pink, symbolizing
their sublime, elevated rank. The circle of figures that
encompasses the Elder represents our culture, members of which
will all eventually become elders themselves. The rusted
ropes wrapping around the Elder represent the connection between
the them and their younger members of family and society. The
one golden rope symbolizes the energy that comes only with age
and experience. “Maiores” is a prayer for the
Elders, both present and future.
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