Auroral Embrace: Wolf Mother – Neon Unisex T-Shirt, Tlingit and Haida totem design by Alaskan Native artist Wéidaaká Yóodóohaa

This compelling t-shirt features “Wolf Mother,” a thought-provoking artwork from the Neon Series, currently exhibited at 5th and Pike in downtown Seattle until May 2025 thanks to Seattle Restored. “Wolf Mother” delves into themes of sacrifice, ancestral connection, and the cyclical nature of life, death, and renewal. Against a deep black background, the wolf, rendered in the traditional Tlingit formline style, emerges as a figure of both power and tenderness. The labret piercing on her lip signifies her high status in Tlingit society, grounding the piece in cultural heritage.

Beyond its striking visuals, the t-shirt tells a story of respect, gratitude, and the intricate balance between human needs and the natural world. The ovoid above the wolf’s head, representing the Earth’s ionosphere and the aurora borealis, adds a celestial dimension, reminding us of our connection to the cosmos. The dripping saliva and paws, depicted in vibrant magenta and cyan, symbolize the wolf’s sacrifice, offering herself to provide for the community. This artwork invites reflection on how we honor nature, acknowledge past sacrifices, and reconcile our needs with the well-being of the environment. Explore other pieces in the Neon Series and consider acquiring larger-format prints with neon lighting; contact information is available online.