David Michael Kennedy, ‘Sundance’ 2011 from the Lakota Dance Portfolio
Excellent condition The Sun Dance is the single most important religious ceremony for the Lakota as well as many other plains tribes. The Lakota saw the sun as the manifestation of the great spirit Wakan Tanka. To the Lakota, the Sun Dance is called Wiwanke Wachipi. The ceremony brings together many different bands of Lakota as it is only practiced once a year in the summer. The purpose of the Sun Dance is to reconnect with the earth and its spirits, as well as a test of strength and endurance for those who participate. Dancers often pray for something more specific, such as strength, hunting skills, and healing powers.