Let the animals be your guide…
A virtual vision walk along the Cameron Park Zoo Sculpture Trail
Public Art in Waco
When you think of Waco, Texas, what is the first thought that crosses your mind? The deadly tornado that demolished downtown in 1953? David Koresh and the Branch Davidian calamity of 1993? Or do your thoughts turn to happier days when Chip and Joanna Gaines renovated dozens of Waco homes on their wildly popular HGTV show “Fixer Upper?”
Fixer Upper was the catalyst for the revitalization of downtown Waco, but the impact of the “Magnolia Effect” was not only economic. The city has become the center of a cultural renaissance that resulted in downtown Waco being designated a State of Texas Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts.
Today, Waco is a #bucketlist destination not only for fans of Chip and Joanna Gaines, but for a growing community of artists and cultural creatives who have found a welcoming environment for their creativity.
At the center of this movement is Creative Waco, a nonprofit organization with a mission to grow and support a thriving cultural and creative community in Waco and McLennan County, Texas. They have projects to support arts-business development, cultivate young and emerging artists through apprenticeships, and fund innovative art projects.
Waco is home to an extensive public art collection of murals, fountains, and sculptures that dot the city from downtown to the historic African-American neighborhoods East of the River, and all along the Waco Riverwalk from Baylor University to Cameron Park.
The photo you see above is part of the “Branding the Brazos” project by renowned sculptor Robert Summers. The series of bronze cowboys and longhorn cattle pays homage to Waco’s role in the historic Chisholm Trail cattle drive. In the background, you can see the Waco Suspension Bridge, which was a thoroughfare for longhorns to get over the Brazos River so they could be sent East on the Kansas Pacific Railway.
I don’t know about you, but I grew up watching old TV westerns like Bonanza and Rawhide that glorified the wild, wild west with its cowboys and sprawling cattle ranches. Clint Eastwood’s character “Rowdy Yates” made cattle driving seem glamorous, but in truth it was a dangerous and often brutal business. “Branding the Brazos” captures the majesty of the longhorns and the spirit of the cowboys who drove them. It is a tribute to a forgotten chapter in Texas history.
The Waco Sculpture Zoo
Just beyond Branding the Brazos, the Waco Riverwalk passes beneath the historic suspension bridge and leads to the Cameron Park Zoo Sculpture Project, an installation of 28 sculptures of animals found in the Waco Zoo.
The distinctive sculptures by 17 leadings artists from across the US were commissioned by Creative Waco and funded by generous donations from Waco philanthropists and business people. They were constructed from a variety of mediums, including bronze, metal, pigmented concrete, and glass mosaic tile.
You can read all about the sculptures, their artists and benefactors on the Creative Waco website. I recommend that you keep this tab open as we take our virtual vision walk.
A Virtual Vision Walk
When I visited Waco in February, my first thought as a retreat leader was to find activities that my clients would love to do. I often lead vision walks where people can find answers to a question that is puzzling them — whether it is about their relationships, careers, where to live, or what they want to do next in life.
I first heard about vision walks from Brandt Morgan, a writer and teacher who studied with don Miguel Ruiz. I highly recommend his book, “Vision Walk,” which tells you more about the history and traditions around this beautiful practice.
As I strolled by the animal sculptures, I realized that humans often turn to animals to tap into their intuition and subconscious feelings. I was “hearing” messages from the animals, and I knew other people would too.
The only problem was, I did not have a retreat group with me on this trip. When I got back home, I decided to create a virtual experience so anyone from anywhere in the world could tap into the power of these amazing sculptures.
In the next few minutes, I am going to lead you on a virtual walk along the Waco Riverway, where we will pause at each animal sculpture and see if there is a message for us. You may find clues at some sculptures and not others, or you may find each animal speaking to you in its own special way.
Before we get started, it is important to have a clear question in your mind. Spend a few minutes picking a question that is important to you. Keep it short and simple, and focus on finding a positive path to resolve whatever is troubling you.
It might help to write down your question, meditate on it for a few minutes, and release it to the Universe. You want to tap into the powers of your subconscious mind here rather than using logic to find a solution.
Human have always been connected to animals both in person and as symbols of the qualities and characteristics we see in them. People from diverse cultures — from Celtic to Native American — have created myths and folktales about the animals that surround them.
You can tap into the messages from animals by contemplating their physical attributes and behaviors. For example, the expression “busy as a beaver” came from the beavers’ industriousness in building dams. The term “eagle eye” refers to the soaring vision of bald eagles sweeping majestically across the sky in search of prey.
We can also turn to explanations of “spirit animals” or “power animals” from practitioners of many shamanic traditions. Those of us who are not from those traditions should not culturally appropriate those terms. However, we can rely on the work of legitimate shamans and healers to help inform our understanding.
On our walk, I will refer to interpretations by Dr. Steven Farmer, author of “Animal Spirit Guides,” as well as Jamie Sams and David Carson, who learned from elders of many Native American tribes. Their “Medicine Cards” and accompanying book are a great introduction to the life lessons we can learn from the animal kingdom.
As we start along the path, you will want to stay in a dreamlike state, following your heart rather than your mind. As you reach each animal sculpture, ask your question and see if any clues pop into your mind.
Before you read my descriptions, ask yourself what qualities and characteristics you associate with each animal? What do you see in their expressions or their poses that might provide an insight into your question?
I encourage you to go to the Creative Waco link to view each sculpture up close as you listen for any message each animal might have for you.
- Spilling the Wind, American Bald Eagle by David Turner
The eagle is known in many cultures as our connection with the divine. Soaring high above the sky, it symbolizes power, vision, and perspective. What do you feel when you look at this magnificent eagle with one wing pointing down to earth and the other reaching to heaven? Do you need a higher perspective on your question?
2. Roxy, Sassy Young Fox by John Maisano
The fox has many personalities. She is playful and intelligent, but can also be seen as a sly trickster. This sassy young fox seems to be looking at you with an inquisitive look. Do you need to be more playful and curious about the question you are pondering?
3. The Kids, Young Orangutans by Lori Hough
Orangutans are known for their curiosity, ingenuity, and resourcefulness. They are very expressive communicators and great nurturers, but also value their alone time. These young orangutans are enjoying some play time. Do you need more play or alone time to tap into your inner resourcefulness?
4. Stalking Fox by David Turner
This sculpture represents another aspect of the fox. Whereas Roxy was sassy and playful, this fox is stealthy, cunning, and alert. He is observing the world to choose his moment to take action. Sometimes it is better to sit back and blend in with your surroundings before deciding what to do. Is this a good time to keep your intentions to yourself?
5. Trouble, American Black Bear Cub by David Guelich
Black bears are known for their strength, determination, and healing powers — but they also need periods of rest and introspection. They are intelligent and show signs of insight and planning. This young cub looks like he is resting in a tree as he contemplates his next adventure. Do you need rest and introspection to heal an old wound so you can move forward?
6. Bats Taking Flight by Bryant J. Stanton
Bats are often thought to symbolize death and rebirth. This sculpture depicts bats in an orchestrated flight, a ritual of change and transition. Do you need to let go of old habits and attachments that no longer serve you, so that you can make room for a new way of being?
7. Mother and Child, Lesser Flamingo by Dan D. Brook
Flamingoes are social beings who travel in large flocks. They are showy performers who don’t like to spend time alone. They represent living from the heart and staying in touch with intuition. Is an inner voice telling you to seek out community, be more visible, or connect with your heart?
8. Ornate Spiny Tailed Lizard by Solomon Bassoff and Domenica Mottarella
The lizard is a dreamer and a visionary. He may appear to be relaxed or even lethargic, but he is acutely aware of his surroundings. Do you need to spend more time in stillness or meditation to tap into the power of your dreams?
9. Gerenuk by Kent Ullberg
The Gerenuk is a long-necked antelope found in the Horn of Africa, also known as the “giraffe gazelle.” They have an excellent sense of hearing, smell, and eyesight, making them very perceptive. They symbolize intuition and connection with spirit, but are also capable of quick and decisive action. Is it time to stop thinking and take guided action toward your goal?
Wise Elephant, African Elephant by Trevor O’Tool
This elephant is imitating the pose of the famous Rodin sculpture “The Thinker.” Elephants symbolize ancient wisdom. They are known for their long memories and remain loyal to those who are kind to them. When they want something, they are quite determined and don’t let anything stand in their way. Is it time to tap into your innate wisdom to figure out what you really want and go for it?
11. Whitetail, White-Tailed Deer by Bob Guelich
Humans often see the deer as a shy, timid creature, but don’t mistake their gentleness for weakness. Deer are acutely aware and sensitive to their surroundings, and in touch with their intuition. They can move quickly and change direction without losing their balance. Some cultures see them as messengers of Spirit. Is it time to get in touch with your intuition and see if you need to change direction?
12. Box Turtle II, Box Turtle by David Turner
In some cultures, turtles symbolize Mother Earth, the source of all life. The shell represents protection, a metaphor for the emotional shields we use to protect ourselves from harm. If you are feeling overwhelmed or under attack, it may be time to slow down, get grounded, and honor your feelings. Move at your own pace and take your time making a decision that honors your connection to your inner truth.
13. American Alligator by David Turner
Humans often see the alligator as a predator, swimming along with only its eyes and nostrils visible looking for prey. But in some cultures, the alligator is seen as a symbol of discernment, taking in all the sensory input before making a decision. A message from the alligator may be telling you to slow down and stop making judgments until you have integrated all the available information.
14. Sumatran Tiger by Tim Tischler
Tigers are nocturnal animals, symbolizing strength, aggressiveness and bravery. We see them as fiery and passionate creatures, who are focused and patient when stalking their prey. They are also very aware of their environment and have a strong sense of intuition. Is it time to call on your passion and power to embark on a new adventure?
15. Night Cat, Mountain Lion (aka cougar, puma, Florida Panther) by Douwe Blumberg
The mountain lion symbolizes leadership, courage, and decisive action. Their graceful pounce reveals a balance of power, intention, physical strength, and grace. Do you need to work on body-mind-spirit balance in your life so you can lead from your heart as well as your head?
16. Giraffe by Solomon Bassoff and Domenica Mottarella
With its long, graceful neck, the giraffe can clearly see what’s ahead. They symbolize the gift foresight through dreams, visions, ideas, or signs from the environment. Maybe it is time to keep your head up and trust your intuition to guide you to the next step. You may have to stretch a little, but you will reach your goal.
17. Lioness With Cubs by Tom Tischler
We think of lions as fierce and courageous “Kings of the Jungle.” The Lioness is the Queen, symbolizing feminine maternal energy. They are good mothers and fiercely protective of their young. Lion cubs are intelligent, curious, and love to play. Do you need to nurture and protect your energy or ideas to bring them to fruition?
18. Hearts Unfolding, Blue Heron by John A. Maisano
Herons are solitary creatures admired for their grace and beauty. They follow their own inner wisdom and guidance rather than relying on others. This Great Blue Heron is calling on you to wade into the waters of intuition and dreams and follow your own heart. Are you ready for some self-reflection and inner discovery?
19. Ely Playing With A Stick, African Elephant by Meg White
Baby elephants are very dependent on their elders until they are 3 years old. Ely was born unable to walk and had to shuffle along on his knees. Under his mother’s care, he learned to straighten his legs and walk. Today, Ely is a fully-grown bull elephant in Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. Is it time for you to emerge from your comfort zone and walk on your own two feet?
20. Taking Flight, Water Fowl by Douwe Blumberg
The artist wanted to interact with the themes of hope and optimism captured in “1000 Hopes for Waco,” a mural of origami cranes taking flight. His water fowl were styled on geese, symbols of spirituality and hope in some Native American and Celtic cultures. They are inviting you to call on your ancestors and re-read favorite myths and legends to tap into your inspiration for a creative project.
21. Meerkat Tribe by Tom Tischler
Meerkats travel in large groups known as a “mob,” “gang,” or “clan,” with one member serving as the lookout. Meerkats have excellent vision and communicate with loud barks or whistles if they spot danger. They symbolize connection with nature and with a supportive community. Is it time for you to come out of isolation and trust that others will watch out for you?
22. Geri, Giraffe by Robbie Barber
Humans are fascinated by the gentle giants that we call giraffes. We have already seen one on this journey, a younger animal whose neck is not fully out-stretched. Now we are face-to-face with a larger, more majestic creature reaching its long neck and tongue for nourishment from the leaves of a live oak tree. This giraffe seems to be asking you to reach for what you want and take a risk for the prize that awaits.
23. Tyson, Tiger by Solomon Bassoff and Domenica Mottarella
Tyson is our second tiger on this journey. He is a more playful tiger, calling to mind the original Waco High School tiger mascot. Why do so many sports teams choose a tiger as their mascot? To some they symbolize the swiftness, power, and passion needed to win. Is it time to tap into our power and passion to achieve your goals?
24. White Rhino by Solomon Bassoff and Domenica Mottarella
The rhinoceros is an imposing creature, often weighing in at more than 5,000 pounds. They are mostly solitary and peaceful animals, except when competing for the attention of a female. The white rhino in particular symbolizes connection to ancient mysteries and wisdom. Are you ready to take some alone time and protect your vision from others who do not support your dreams?
25. African Lion by Solomon Bassoff and Domenica Mottarella
We have heard from the Lioness, now it is time to hear from the King of the Jungle. Humans associate the lion with power, dignity, and strength. Think of the popular movie “The Lion King,” in which Simba has to challenge his uncle to reclaim his place as the rightful king. Like Simba, you are stronger than you think. Maybe it is time to follow your heart and call on your emotional strength to overcome any obstacles in your way.
26. Afro Pach-Patch, Mother & Baby African Elephants by Andrew Scott
On our second encounter with these majestic animals, we visit a mother and her baby. Elephant herds are very matriarchal and mothers play an important role in protecting their young. Humans have sometimes exploited these gentle animals into labor and circus performances, but there is a growing movement to provide a better life in animal sanctuaries where the elephants are valued for their loyalty. Now might be a good time to consider who you want to serve in the world and who deserves your loyalty.
27. Razak and Auntie, Orangutans by Solomon Bassoff and Domenica Mottarella
Our first visit with the orangutans was with playful youngsters. This time, we are going to see young Razak, whose Auntie Kutai stepped in as a surrogate when his birth mother Mei was suffering from post-partum depression. If you remember those experiments from college Psychology class, nurturing is vital to the mental health of baby orangutans. Are you in need of some nurturing yourself, or do you need to provide more sustenance to nourish your budding ideas?
Interpreting Your Messages from the Animals
Here our tour ends at the entrance to the Cameron Park Zoo. Before you go to visit with the live animals, take a few minutes to interpret the messages you have received and give gratitude for the gift of this impressive sculpture project.
We each receive messages from nature and animals in our own unique way. You may have heard them speak to you, or seen visions of them acting out a message. You may have felt a surge of emotion, or experienced an instant “knowing.” However the animals communicated with you, they are expressing your own connection with intuition and the spirit of the Universe. If you pay attention to their messages, you will arrive at your own inner truth.
