When talking about “Native American art,” we need to understand the many flaws of this term. There is no single monolith of Native American culture, as the territories of North America always were, and still are, populated by hundreds of indigenous tribes, each with unique traditions, religions, and artistic practices. However, there are some similarities between visual cultures of certain tribes based on location. Let us tell you about the main types of Native American art, which are widespread in the territory currently referred to as the United States of America.

Five Popular Types of Native American Art You Must Know

Totem Poles

Wooden totem poles are probably some of the most well-known types of Native American art. They are usually found in western Canada, the northwestern United States, and Alaska. Totem poles serve various purposes, such as recording family lineage, welcoming visitors to the tribe, commemorating ancestors, and even publicly mocking someone. They always have complex designs carved into them and often depict culturally important animals and people.

Wooden masks

Wooden transformation masks, traditionally used by Native American peoples in the northwestern part of the United States, are featured in ceremonies and rituals. Often referred to as opening masks, they consist of two parts – the outside shell, usually depicting an animal head, can be opened like a window shutter, revealing a human face hidden inside. This act symbolizes the person or animal transforming into another creature or entering another realm.

Beadwork

Traditional Native American beadwork has existed and flourished as a form of self-expression long before Europeans brought over glass in the 17th century. Before that, different tribes used different materials to create beautiful, intricate beaded ornaments on clothes, jewelry, and ceremonial garments. Shells, claws, and bone are some of the most commonly used materials and are still often incorporated into contemporary beadwork, alongside glass beads.

Basketry

Basketry could be seen as a utilitarian craft until you discover some truly intricate designs. Native American tribes originating from California are especially known for their basket-weaving technique. Since the popularization of Native American styles of baskets in the late 19th century, these objects can be found in museums all over the US.

Pottery

Many Native American cultures create elaborate figurines and utensils from clay. The Pueblo people, who mostly live in Arizona and New Mexico, are famous for their pottery, which is highly valued by collectors.

Native American art is not a thing of the past by any means. Supporting contemporary Native American artists is a great way to help preserve these traditional art forms and crafts.