3 Different Elements Defining the Traditional Native American Art |
Posted: June 8, 2020 |
The trend of Native American Art is increasing day by day. But let’s take a look back to know what elements actually define this kind of art. Art has been an important form of expression for Native American communities for thousands of years. It was used as a sign of their patrimony. Starting with cave drawings and carvings, Native American traditional art has grown to include complex artworks such as jewelry making, pottery, weaving, sculpture, doll making, basketry, and more. Although locating old examples of Native American artworks has become increasingly difficult, many new artists are trying to keep the traditions alive by bringing traditional art into more modern forms, as is evident in items like Native American art jewelry and Turquoise Necklaces.
Traditionally, there were three elements that played an important role in the creation of any kind of Native American artwork. Here they are: The Role of the Artist While a Native American artist’s role in another culture was no different from an artist's, which was to arouse a sensational or emotional response from the audience, the strict traditions of Native American culture did not give them much scope for experimentation. While using common mediums or techniques, they were able to bring about major changes in traditional styles through their imagination, and create designs or patterns that were unique to their tribe and community. The Origin Story The origins of most forms of Native American art are lost in obscurity. While some were influenced by the elements of nature, some were simple images of one-dimensional figures and forms. However, from colonization and Western practices, Old Native American Jewelry has had so much foreign influence that it is impossible to work out the precise origins of certain ideas. Some artists' creations also result from their interaction with a "guardian spirit," known as a "vision quest." It is a state where the artist enters a divine domain free of human beings or things. In their works, the patterns or designs they find in that state are recreated. Function of Art While some Native American art objects are merely utilitarian items, some are a reflection of the social and cultural structure. Some of the best artistic works, including the sand paintings by the Navajos, were mostly reserved for religious ceremonies. Art was also the Native American way of maintaining some sort of influence over their surroundings and what they considered to be supernatural forces. While the traditional meanings and functions still remain in modern times, many tribes create artwork for their aesthetic values and commercial purposes only. Items like Navajo silver cuff bracelets and Native American Rings are a fine example of Native American artists' craftsmanship.
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