What a fascinating poem, Maureen, full of history I really enjoyed this one.
A few thoughts below:
Instead of
A magnificent monolith
whose colours were constantly changingit might be more concise to try
A magnificent monolith
whose colours constantly changed
from gold to red to deep purple [hues]hues could be deleted as they are obviously colours.
The spirits of his ancestors are here.
Their ancient paintings adorn her.
The paints made from [what]
items the Mother provided.
Take or toss any of these suggestions, Maureen. I hope someone else will chime in here.
Snow