Sunday, June 24, 2012

Spiritual Connections With Native American Artwork

By Thelma Kent


Few things evoke a sense of history and poignant emotions like Native American artwork. The traditional styles that most art pieces offer can bring out a true sense of spirituality in anyone who views them. Some pieces are done in professional European style or classic mediums. Others are pen and ink and straight from the hands of the native first nations people themselves.

A historic people, the North American natives trace their blood right back to cave man days. Crossing over from Europe and Asia on the Bering Strait land bridge of long ago, they eventually conquered this land and made it their own. They are the first people of the nation, not to be forgotten despite their adherence to traditional ways.

Art has always been a strong part of indigenous culture. Many different cultures the world over have used art to invoke their gods, to send messages and prayers to heavenly sky beings, and to leave the mark of their belief system on the world. Cave paintings show modern people how those now lost to time lived, as well as what they valued and what they believed in.

Artwork that comes out of such strong roots can be found in intricately woven baskets as well as complicated designs painted painstakingly with sand. Many native artists have made the move to canvas or are using illustration board to share their creative vision. This means that their art can be shared with a bigger audience or stored in a private gallery.

Canvas and board pieces help natives demonstrate the strong flowing spirit they come from. The images are rarely of scenes such as large vistas of mountain and sky or the ocean. Instead, there is a stringent focus on animals and people, specifically the spirits of these things. The art itself helps the viewer make touch once more with the web of life that connects all things.

There is a great feeling of reverence around native american artwork. Each piece is so unique, and while some might be available in print format, the originals are the best. They are reminiscent of a culture that refuses to fade and instead expresses itself far into the future.




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