Blackfeet tribal members celebrated the release of 25 bison back to their native habitat in June of 2023. The release took place near Babb, MT with Chief Mountain towering in the distance. This historic and sacred event provides symbols of hope and healing for the Blackfeet Nation. Bison have not roamed free on these hallowed grounds for nearly 150 years.

Symbols Of Hope portrays the native herd of bison roaming freely on the Miistakis (Backbone of the World). The winter scene is especially significant as indigenous people were purposely starved in the winter months due to the near extermination of the bison.

Several years ago I painted a piece titled On Sacred Ground with the idea and hope that this could someday become a reality. It gives me immense joy to see two sacred icons reunited and restored.

Symbols of Hope was purchased by the Governor and First Lady of Montana in 2025 and hangs in the Governor’s Mansion in Helena, MT.