[Original artwork by Mel White]

At FC '08, I had the privilege to meet Mel White and commission her for this wonderful piece. It seems that we’re both enthusiasts for coyote trickster tales, and we spent quite awhile discussing and chuckling over some of our favorites.

This piece depicts Coyote stealing fire and bringing it down to Earth, a popular myth with many variations. I especially like the ones in which he carries the fire in the tip of his tail, explaining why coyotes seem to have a scorched-looking spot there.

If anyone would like to see more of Mel’s work, keep an eye on http://coyotedancing.deviantart.com/ -- that’s her new gallery on DA!

Thanks again, Mel!