The indigenous art of the Pacific Northwest Coast is striking and distinctive. These books will help you learn more about its forms and history; you will also discover where you can go to view or buy this unique artwork.
1. Understanding Northwest Coast Art
This dictionary-style guide to Northwest Coast art is subtitled "A Guide to Crests, Beings and Symbols." In addition to information about artifacts, mythic beings, and culture, you will find an easy-to-understand explanation of the design elements and conventions characteristic of Northwest Coast art. Dozens of illustrations and photos are included.
2. Art of the Northwest Coast
"Art of the Northwest Coast," written by Aldona Jonaitis, provides a comprehensive look at Northwest Coast art from prehistoric times to the present day. Published in 2006, this book is a must-read for anyone who has a serious interest in Northwest Coast art. The hefty volume is filled with color and black-and-white photographs of Northwest Coast art from museum collections around the world. You'll also find many historic photos and helpful explanatory diagrams.3. Looking at Indian Art of the Northwest Coast
This book provides a thorough overview of the characteristics and meaning of Northwest Coast Native art. Through illustrations and photos you will learn about the distinctive shapes that form the totem animals and spirit beings. Both the variations and the commonalities in style among the tribes are also introduced.4. Looking at Totem Poles
If you've always be fascinated by the faces and figures on totem poles, this is the book for you. Detailed sketches and descriptions cover 110 different totem poles located in British Columbia and Alaska - each is accessible for you to visit. An introductory section addresses the history, variation, carving, and imagery associated with Northwest Coast totem poles.5. Northwest Coast Native and Native-Style Art
This "Guidebook for Western Washington" will help you understand and appreciate this distinct art form. The bulk of the book is devoted to helping you find "every publicly accessible Northwest Coast art object" in the region. Each chapter begins with a map and a list of art works, followed by descriptions of each piece; museums, tribal centers, galleries, and shops conclude each chapter.6. Learning by Designing Pacific Northwest Coast Native Indian Art
If you are interested in incorporating Northwest Native motifs into your own art, this is the book for you. After an introduction that describes the four basic art styles, you will get detailed instruction on the basic design, head components, and body parts that comprise the Northwest Coast style. This is followed by several "How to Draw" exercises including an eagle head and a killer whale.7. Mythic Beings: Spirit Art of the Northwest Coast
The art of contemporary First Nations artists is the focus of "Mythic Beings." Masks, blankets, jewelry, glass, and basketry are among the 75 works included; each piece depicts the mythic beings associated with the sky, undersea, mortal and spirit worlds. Gorgeous color photographs are each accompanied by the artist's own words.