Shin-Au-Av-Tu-Weap 1873 - 1874

Thomas Moran’s 1873-1874 watercolor painting “Shin-Au-Av-Tu-Weap” (meaning “a place of many waters” in Navajo), depicts the dramatic landscape of the American West, specifically the towering rock formations and canyons of the Colorado River region. The artist’s masterful use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and grandeur in the landscape. Moran, known for his evocative depictions of the West, was a key figure in inspiring public interest in the region’s natural beauty, ultimately leading to the creation of Yellowstone National Park.