Yin Lang Art Print
From the Artist
Done as a commission for a close friend, the piece brings together two popular images in American culture, a wolf and the Yin Yang symbol. The title is Chinese. Concisely it translates to “Night Wolf”, though the definition of yin means much more than simply night. It also incorporates the dark, feminine, earthly half of the ancient symbol.
The original is the private collection of Morgan Jones.
Funny side note:
In 2006 this artwork was taken and attributed to another artist in a widely popular meme that has since spawned many other memes.
Still to this day people come to us and quote this “Cherokee Legend”. The truth is actually much more complicated.
The legend of the two wolves is a popular metaphor that is often attributed to the Cherokee people, but it is not actually a Cherokee legend. According to Wikipedia1, the origin of the story can be traced to several Christian Evangelical authors, who told a story about a person who fixed dog fights by feeding one dog more than the other. The story was later modified to use wolves instead of dogs, and to present it as a Cherokee legend. The story is about a grandfather who tells his grandson that there are two wolves inside him, one evil and one good, and that the one who wins is the one he feeds.
The story has been quoted and referenced in various forms in media articles, books, movies, and TV shows. For example, the story is featured in the 2015 film Tomorrowland, where a father and daughter use it to talk about the future of humanity. The story is also used in the TV series Luke Cage, the comic series Daredevil, and the web novel Heaven Official’s Blessing, among others.
The story is not a historical or cultural representation of the Cherokee people, but rather a modern invention that has been widely circulated and adapted. If you want to learn more about the actual Cherokee legends and myths, you can check out this website2, which features stories about the creation of the world, the origin of fire, the moon-eyed people, and more. You can also read this book3, which is a collection of authentic Cherokee tales and folklore.
Overall, the meme and the thought behind it is not a bad one, though it is sad that the artwork was so widely shared and not attributed to Paul.
More on the art:
Explore the harmonious balance of Yin Yang Wolf art, a captivating expression of ancient Chinese philosophy mixed with the wildness of wolves. Yin Yang represents the dualistic nature of existence, where opposite forces are interconnected and interdependent. In the realm of art, this concept manifests in visually stunning creations that capture the delicate equilibrium between light and dark, soft and strong, yielding a profound sense of harmony. Dive into the world of Yin Yang art to discover how these symbolic representations can bring balance and tranquility into your living space.
Wolves hold a special place in various cultures, symbolizing strength, loyalty, and a deep connection with nature. Artists channel the mystical aura of wolves to create powerful and evocative pieces that resonate with spirituality. Whether portrayed in a lone howl under the moonlight or as part of a pack, wolf-inspired art taps into the primal energy associated with these majestic creatures. Explore the transformative qualities of wolf-themed artwork, as it brings a sense of wild spirituality into your surroundings.
Yin Yang wolf art, with its captivating blend of ancient symbolism and the primal allure of wolves, has the power to evoke a myriad of emotions within individuals. The harmonious interplay of opposing forces represented by the Yin Yang symbol, coupled with the spiritual resonance of wolves, creates a unique and profound visual experience. Observing a piece of Yin Yang wolf art may elicit a sense of balance and unity, as the contrasting elements seamlessly coexist. The wolf, often associated with strength, loyalty, and mystery, adds a touch of wild spirituality to the composition, inspiring a connection with nature. Overall, encountering Yin Yang wolf art can evoke feelings of harmony, introspection, and a deep appreciation for the delicate dance between light and dark, yin and yang, in both the artwork and the observer’s own inner landscape.
About Paul Bielaczyc
I have been drawing and whatnot since as long as I can remember. Any spot in my school notebooks that didn’t have notes were filled with sketches. I drew mostly from the D&D adventures that my brother ran, as well as the fantasy books I was reading. I did a few pieces based on Terry Brooks’ Shannara series, but focusing on being a nerd, I didn’t have much time for art in high school.
Education
When I got to college I dual majored in Computer Science and Art History. Minoring in Studio Art, I took as many art classes as my schedule allowed. I seemed to be pursuing a career in art or art education, but decided to try graduate school in Computer Science. Graduating in 2004 with a Master’s in CS, but again switched paths and returned to my art interests. Mike, my brother, and I co-own Aradani Studios, a costuming and art company that we founded in 2002. We travel mostly in the Southeast United States, to various conventions and Renaissance Festivals, selling our art, and our ears.
Now
I currently call Nashville, TN my home, and don’t see that changing for quite some time. This is where my friends, my family, and my career is. When I first posted this bio, I said that, “I still have no idea what I want to do with my life.” Well, in those 4 years that I wrote that, I think I have found my calling. At the age of 26, I won the most prestigious fantasy art award there is, the Chesley Award. Mike and I have slowly but steadily grown this business into something that now employs other people! And most importantly, I love what I do, and I truly enjoy being able to talk about my art with people, and have a dialogue with them.
And I owe all of this to my brother. Without him, I don’t know where I would be today, but it wouldn’t be here. And I hope he always remembers that I am grateful to him.
