[Art] River Dolphin as Totem

[moonvoice]

River Dolphin as Totem

There are four living species of dolphin (the fifth - the Chinese Baiji - is thought to be functionally extinct), which are mostly found in freshwater rivers, hence the name 'river dolphin.' One species of river dolphin - La Plata - is found in saltwater estuaries. The other three are the Ganges, Indus and Amazon, all river dolphins have more commonly known local names, in local dialects. All river dolphins are threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, hunting, and low reproductive rates that lead to low population numbers. They hunt alone, or in very loosely organised pods. Because many live in very muddy environments with poor visibility, some have vestigial or very poor eyesight.





Keywords for River Dolphin as a totem animal (obviously not exhaustive):

Shape-shifting and shape-shifting mythologies, being extremely and highly sensitive to all forms of energy and energy shifts, being blind to the obvious, but able to perceive the hidden, preferring solitude or loose communities, being used by others, good luck and bad luck

18.5 x 20.5cm (or 7.4 x 8 in)
illo's board, fineliner, aquarelle, pencil, metallic and iridescent paint

Comments

[corvus-coronis.livejournal.com]

I remember a meditation many years ago where I kept repeatedly changing to a river dolphin & swimming up a river to find my goal (which was away from the river). Looking at some of the totemic meanings you've been given, I think that was an apt description of my state of mind at the time - especially probing into secret corners while being clueless to more visible issues

[moonvoice.livejournal.com]

Thank you for this, I always appreciate it when people come to say 'I relate to those meanings from my own personal experiences.'

Sounds like a very amazing experience you had as well. :)

[corvus-coronis.livejournal.com]

Thanks, it was a pretty otherwise ordinary meditation (for that time), but it really stuck in my memory!

Anyway, keep up the good work! (both shamanic & art)