Robert leads group to series of petroglyphs along the rock face.
Robert explained that the markings on the rocks were often a combination of petroglyphs that were followed by shepherds that worked in the area.
"Solstice rock".... the sun will "climb" the triangulated peak of rock in conjunction with the actual start of the solstice.
Here the "solstice rock" begins the light sequence (near bottom right).
the group listens as Robert points out more petroglyphs and some of the theories about their origins and meanings.
Another petroglyph that the sun will continue to unveil.
Robert demonstrates the view of the owl with wings spread that is on rock behind him
the owl that Robert was describing (with wings spread)
The multiple drawings usually indicated a story or message.
The shepherds would put crosses on some of the rocks with petroglyphs as counter to what they considered pagan art. And can see the more modern residents have made the crevices their home
Gak Stonn, fellow photographer, printer and photo tour guide, climbs to getter better view of some of the higher petroglyphs.
if you trek with a photographer, you tend to see this look often.
Robert and Dawn.
Julie Arneson
Julie gets to help out another photographer, something she's gotten quite a lot of practice on.
Water streams everywhere this year...this acequia has not been running for many years.
water pouring through the acequia, again an uncommon view for this piece of land.
The sun continues to climb up solstice rock as nearer the official start of solstice.
The sun continues to climb up solstice rock as nearer the official start of solstice.
Happy face with happy face.
I read this as momma and baby bighorns.
Again, shepherd markings next to snake and more drawings considered pagan by the shepherds.
former shepherds cottage.
While so many things change with time -- growth of towns and communities, influx and impact of tourism, new faces -- there remains a strong, ever-present foundation to many of the communities of Northern New Mexico and that is the steadfast faith, which can be seen in the homages that also serve as hearts of the communities.
© Kathryn A. Hayden
