Native American art most prominently consists of complex symbolism that reflects the multi- faceted cultural and spiritual beliefs of the American Indian peoples. Historically, the images and faces carved, painted or molded through the different art mediums, stood as metaphorical expressions of spiritual concepts within Native American culture. Presently, there are similar sentiments involved within the art form, but there is also the aspect of remembering and ultimately respecting their cultural past through the continuation of traditions using images. Because there were, and still are, hundreds to thousands of different Native American tribes, it is difficult to define systematically what Native American art is. However, several overlapping ideas and motifs do exist throughout the different tribal expressions that allow us at least a general understanding of this complex, highly symbolic, mythical and simply stunning form of art.

Understanding some of the complex symbolism involved within Native American art requires some knowledge of the mythology and spiritual beliefs prevalent within the civilization. In many Native American belief systems, the entire universe and all its inhabitants contribute to an intricate arrangement of symbols and spiritual concepts. The earth itself stands as a sphere, dividing the sky above from the water below. There are several images associated with each realm but a common image within Native American art is the iconic Thunderbird, often times in the form of the eagle, whose dominion is the sky above. Among the waters, fish, often salmon and whales, rule the oceans. The earth itself, divided into four quadrants of north, south, east and west, stands as a symbol of the mother and procreator of life.

In the historic Native American culture, people did not create art for its own sake. Instead, what we now consider Native American art was rather, in large part, objects created out of daily necessity and for spiritual beliefs and practices; the totem poles, and animalistic carvings and sculptures all served a spiritual purpose. Present day Native American art does include broader inspirational sources that do still include in, some instances, the spiritual aspects of the culture, but also the historical remembrance and propagation of the culture.

Imagekind features an extensive collection of amazing Native American art pieces from both independent and well-known artists from both persuasions. The stunning collection by Charles M. Russell includes a historical look at the culture, which portrays sweeping scenic landscapes with American Indian horse riders. To find some of the more spiritual aspects of the artwork, trying browsing the collection from the artist Grigg whose pictures generally lack an extensive background, which places the viewer’s attention on the single images of horse and rider, or simply a buffalo or other iconic American Indian imagery?