The History Of Native American Art.

There are many ways in which Native American art can be manifested. Some of the most well known are pottery pieces. The skill and creative thoughts of the potter can easily be seen in pots, jars, and bowls. While some of this pottery is made along strictly traditional lines, many Indian artists combine ancient design with their own artistic thoughts. Besides pottery, Native American art is rich in carvings, both large and small. Everything from tiny animal fetishes to totem poles contributes to the Indian carving culture. Appreciation of Native American art has been developing for many centuries. Early tourists to the American Southwest were eager to buy rugs and pottery made by Navajo and Zuni artists. 

This proud artistic tradition has flowered and expanded over the years. Most Native American artists create individual works of art. Well known for their skilled carving is a group of Indians known as the Inuit. A reflection of life near the ocean is present in their work as they often use walrus ivory for their pieces. The Indians of the Northwest are known for their masks and totem poles. Drums, pipes and lances were produced by the Plains Indians. Helping to complete your decor needs, these traditional items will be a welcome addition to your home. When a decision is made to begin a collection of Native American art, the only trouble will be deciding where to begin. 

Your best bet when collecting is to focus on an element of Indian art that holds your interest. A wonderful way to begin a collection is to buy many different baskets from different tribes. A Native American basket collection can be a fascinating addition to your home due to the wide range of sizes, materials, and construction methods used. Linking the present and the past, modern baskets can even be part of a collection of antique ones. Adding Native American art to your home will help to make your western or rustic decor more complete. A few randomly selected items, such as a horse hair pot, a headdress, a decorated warrior's war shirt, or a large dream catcher can really bring the ambiance of the Indian into your home. It would be a good idea to stay with pieces created by Native Americans when searching for Indian art. The pieces added will hold centuries of cultural tradition. Native American art on the wall, table, mantle, or floor will help to unify your home as well. Some will want to add a variety of pieces while others may prefer to stay with an individual artist or tribe. It cannot be denied that this art work will enliven and personalize your home no matter which method you choose in collecting.

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