Four Horsemen of the Lakota

Decorate your home with an original art print from Lakota artist, Lynn Burnette, Sr.

Story of Four Horsemen of the Lakota by Lynn Burnette Lakota Artist

The “Horsemen” came from the story, “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse”. They were named Death, Famine, War and Pestilence. The Lakota people never had “Bad” Spirits or doom and gloom as an omen for better living. We asked for guidance from the creator and thanked him when we received it.

When trying to guide younger people, there has to be a substantial base to teach from. So I am using the four horsemen as guides. Each rider has his power to share. The four horsemen where and Spirituality, Integrity, Courage and Wisdom are riding hard and fast as victors in the battle between complacency and achievement.

These horsemen have come from the four directions to centralize the power. These Four Horsemen belong to the Lakota.

About the Artist

Lakota Artist, Lynn Burnette, Sr., was born on the Rosebud Indian Reservation north of Mission, SD. His family belongs to the Sicangu band of the Lakota people.

Born into horses and cattle ranching, he became a working cowboy and later a rodeo cowboy. He has worked on cattle ranches in different parts of the west. He was raised on a place that was without running water or electricity. Water had to be hauled in from a pump and the source of light was kerosene lamps. Wood stoves were used to heat the house and cook.

His Grandfather had a great influence on Lynn’s life. He taught him to dance traditionally, about spirituality and about life in general. Most of his paintings are from history or stories his grandfather told him. He started sketching when he was very young. He sketched everything; horses, scenery, still life and tried sketching people. Lynn started painting in the late 1970’s. He created his own style of paintings, which are called “tea” paintings. This method of preparation provides a unique style that inspires him. He also paints on canvas with oils or acrylics and has done bronze sculptures.

Over the years his paintings and sculptures have won awards at art shows. Lynn is currently serving on the advisory council for the Waniyetu Wowapi Lakota Youth Arts and Culture Institute and has taught tea painting classes for the Cheyenne River Youth Project.

Mr. Burnette generously donated this print to the Cheyenne River Youth Project and all rights to make prints so they could be used  to help generate income for CRYP.

Explanation of Tea Painting by Lynn Burnette, Sr.

The brown color you see in this painting is done with Instant Tea. I wet heavy watercolor paper and then sprinkle instant tea. The tea runs where it will. After the paper is dry, I study it to see what image would be complimented by the tea patterns. I have been using Instant tea in my painting since 1987. So far, I am the only one, that I am aware of, who does this kind of art.