Discover The Origins Of Native American Art

Native American people represent only 1% of the population in the United States today even though they once dominated the entire North American continent. While many of these native groups have almost disappeared along with their culture, some of their beautiful art remains. Below is a discussion of five types of Native American art you might like to display in your home or give as an unusual gift.

Southwestern Kachinas

Kachinas are dolls which were created as representations of spirits or entities from the culture's spiritual beliefs. After being crated, they were given to the children of the tribes as part of their instruction in the basic understanding of the myths and legends that shaped Hopi culture at the time. Frequently, these dolls were distributed during the dances which occurred between the Winter Solstice in December through the middle of July. During the dances, other members of the tribe would dress up as large forms of the Kachinas and would dance while others would pass out the dolls to the children. Both male and female dancers would be involved in the dances. Additionally, the dolls would be accompanied by gifts of other useful toys, such as bows and arrows, and sometimes sweets.

American Indian Pottery

Many of the most notable American Indian groups were responsible for creating some of the most beautiful pottery imaginable. These groups, including the Zuni and the Navajo, improved their creative arts of the decades and developed their pottery to be more than just practical. It also became highly artistic and beautiful symbols of their culture. There are a wide range of different types of pottery available. You will still find many practical pieces of pottery that represent the daily lives of the people who have nearly been driven to extinction themselves while other pieces are ornate and decorative because they were used for the very important ceremonial parts of the culture.

Southwestern Sand Art

Another popular type of Native American art found in the southwest is known as Sand Art. Many of the groups in this area of the United States had the ability to do this type of intricate, delicate work because they had become very settled and had long given up the nomadic lifestyles of most of their ancestors. Many of the most beautiful pieces were created on large 12 foot high looms, and these existing pieces stand today as a testament to the beauty and culture of these people. The sand art paintings were often created to represent images and symbols important to the culture, particularly to the spiritual aspects of the culture. The geometric patterns which characterize these art styles are also very common throughout modern art forms in the West and even in Mexico.

Southwestern Jewelry

Many beautiful pieces of jewelry have come from the workings of Native American silversmiths. The Navajo are believed to have been the first of the tribes to learn this art in the middle 19th century. They quickly began to use the skill to add silver to many of the items they used in their daily lives and eventually into the artistic elements of their culture. Jewelry clearly became one of them. The Navajo and other tribes were able to create and trade their silver crafts with the settlers in the area very profitably which is one reason why their beautiful silver jewelry and other items has become so popular around the country. But the jewelry also commonly includes turquoise which was a treasured stone of the Native Americans in the area and was considered a symbol that would bring people happiness and good health.

Southwestern Artifacts

Besides the other types of art throughout the Native American culture, many of their artifacts demonstrate important aspects of their culture and their beliefs. For example, much of the artwork was created using the hides of animals from the area. These hides were unique and beautiful. The tribes also made the popular Mandela art pieces which played a role in their spiritual pursuits, as well as decorative shields, drums, and other items that were beautiful then and still make a striking statement as part of your home décor.

Regardless of the types of Southwestern Indian art you love, you'll find a wide range of beautiful choices that can make perfect decorations in the home. All five of these categories provide some amazing decorative pieces that will stand out and make a startlingly beautiful conversation piece in your home. Not only can you have part of the beauty in your home but also you can share part of the culture.

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