American Indian & Tribal Art has had a significant role in shaping the history of our country. They are some of our country's most beloved and respected cultural figures. You can find many beautiful pieces on display throughout the United States, and they have been displayed at museums for decades. Some of our most beloved American Indian & Tribal Art include Sitting Bull, Caddo, Cheyenne, and countless others. Below, you will see examples of these and more.
Sitting Bull was a leader among the tribes of the plains. He is recognized as the first chief over the reservation when the government ordered all tribes to unite under one leadership. He played an important role in protecting the rights of the Plains tribes and their culture. Because of his bravery, he is also widely regarded as the first US President that ever served in office.
Caddo was a powerful tribe located along the Southern part of Texas. They were known for being strong, but friendly people. They participated in many great wars with the Spanish, French, and Indians along the Texas border. Their art features many different subjects including: Texas Star of David, Medicine Man, Longhorn, Turtle, Wolf, Eagle, and many others.
Cheyenne was a very large and powerful tribe. They were known for being brave warriors and regarded as the most skilled tribe of the plains. One of their most respected figures, Crazy Horse, is recognized as the first American President as he lived up to his reputation as a leader and great warrior.
Two other American Indian tribes were Santa Fe and Navajo. Santa Fe is well known for their spiritual beliefs & practices, which are still prevalent today. They also produced some of the finest art work in America. The main artwork in this area is: Sand Person, Painted Woman, Sand Castle, Ghost, Pueblo, & Navajo Creation. Another very interesting tribe was the Lakota. They used colors and their natural items to create beautiful art pieces.
You see, each tribe had unique characteristics & there were some similarities. The overall American Indian art style has changed over the years but it always included one or more of these traits. Some of the styles you have seen before that are considered "American Indian Art", were actually Indian art mixed with other styles such as: Western, African, Art Deco, and Spanish. Some of the most prominent Indian artists that influenced other American Indian art styles are: William Barnes, Humpkin Creek, Chas. Smith, andpainted the famous cover of the Native American Temptations album. All of these artists have left a significant mark on our American Indian culture.
You might be wondering how did all of this happen? It's a great question and one that can only be answered by understanding the rich history of American Indian Art. The impact of these American Indians on the history of the West Coast can never be overlooked. Without them, there probably would not have been Custer's Charge or Sitting Bull; nor any of the other tribes that settled the west coast from Oregon to Texas. Without the American Indian's creativity, there most likely would not have been sand paintings, gourds of wheat, and other wonderful Native American artwork.
American Indian art is so important to the American Indian culture that thousands of Native American tribes still practice some of the same unique art styles that helped shape our country. While the American Indian art of yesteryear has lost some of its glory, it has certainly gained new life through the many efforts of contemporary Native American artists. With their many great artistic creations, these Native American tribes are once again standing up tall on their own two feet. It's time for you to see what difference American Indian art makes in today's world! If you want to know the value of Native American Art you own, you can contact American Indian art appraisals .
