The Native Arts of the Americas

The Native Arts of the AmericasArctic RegionInuit- or EskimosCompared to hunters and boat builders, artists did not play a huge role until recent timesFocused on the animals that they relied on for foodThe human figure was depicted in masks and dollsIvory EngravingInuit artists used a form of picture writing to describe various activities of everyday life

Inuit MasksArt created to serve the religious needs of the peopleShaman- leader believed to have healing powers wore these masks during ceremonial dances

Hamatsa MasksComposed of several movable hinged piecesMovement was intended to add surprise and drama to the ritual

The Power of RitualHamatsa rituals were carefully staged for dramatic impactThey often celebrated with a potlatch, an elaborate ceremonial feast, also used for trading and trusting other groups of peopleHonored other clan membersTotem PolesTall posts carved and painted with a series of animal symbols associated with a particular family or clan.Means of identification and a sign of prestigeThe more symbols the greater the prestige

Southwest RegionEarly Spanish explorers used the word pueblo, meaning village, to identify groups of peopleAdobe- walls made of sun-dried clayKiva- a circular underground structure

Pueblo PotteryPueblo people were also very skilled at making painted pottery

The NavajoThe majority of the art from these people was the art of weaving.Qualities include the closeness of the weave; rich vibrant colors; and bold designThis was called the eye dazzlerEx. Saddle blanket

Woodlands Region (Northeast)Mounds- form of high, narrow ridges of earth that encircle large fieldsPurpose remains a subject for debate but many believe that they were built to create an impressive setting for spiritual ceremonies.

The Great Serpent MoundAdena moundsMany tools, weapons, ornaments, and pottery pieces have been found underneath these mounds, but the most impressive art is the carvings.Ex. Adena pipe

The Iroquois TribeExpert wood carversCreated wooden masks usually decorated with horse hair

Art in Mexico and in Central and South America The Olmec- 1st great civilization in MexicoMost surprising works were gigantic heads carved in volcanic rock18 have been discovered thus far8 feet high and 40 tons

Olmec SculptureJadeite masks- may have graced the tombs of Olmec rulers

The MayaThe Mayan religion believed that gods created humans through self- sacrifice and the first people were made by mixing maize, or corn with water.Humans were then required to return blood to the gods to maintain strength and nourishment.Mayan ArchitectureTemples and other structures were built with a cement-like compound made from burnt limePyramids were up to 230 feet highEx. Mayan city at Tikal

The AztecsTenochtitlan- main city that was built on an island in the lake containing huge palaces, temples, gardens, schools, arsenals, workshops, and sophisticated canals and aqueducts.Warlike people who fought for religious beliefsBelieved in human sacrifice to keep gods in good spirits

The IncasBest known of all ancient people who settled in PeruNo written languageBuilt roads and bridges Inca ArchitectureSolid structures of stoneThey may have been placed in a sling of some kind and then swung against those that were placed below and beside it.Ex. Machu Picchu- Inca city in between 2 mountain peaks 8000 ft. above sea level