Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age: 14
- Grade: 9
Description
The first section of this book features an alphabetical list of words relating to Northwest Coast art, with definitions, descriptions and explanations and synopses of the major myths associated with them. As an aid to identification and understanding, many of the crests, beings and symbols are illustrated in the 6 black-and-white reproductions of contemporary works of art. The entries cover everything: crests such as Eagle, Dogfish or Dragonfly; ancestral beings such as Creek Woman or Thunderbird; mythic beings such as Raven, the Chief of the Undersea or Cedar Man; and super-natural beings such as Death-Bringer. The second section offers descriptions of the art styles and types of decorated objects created by the various Northwest Coast cultural groups. Easy to use and easy to read, Understanding Northwest Coast Art is an essential source for understanding and visually identifying the underlying themes and subjects of Northwest Coast Native art.
About the author
Cheryl Shearer is a graduate of the University of British Columbia. She has worked at the Spirit Gallery in West Vancouver and at the Whistler Inuit Gallery, and now is the owner of the Salmonberry Gallery in Toronto.
Librarian Reviews
Understanding Northwest Coast Art: A Guide to Crests, Beings and Symbols
This dictionary style book is designed to help the reader understand Northwest Pacific Coast Aboriginal culture and art. It is a valuable resource for recognizing and appreciating the symbols, crests and creatures found in various forms of art including masks, totem poles, baskets, prints, clothing and weaving. The book deals with the conventions and elements of designs as well as cultural groups and art styles. The book contains many photographs and drawings of examples of the works and styles being discussed. The book’s intention is to make connections between the works, the stories that go with the pieces and the celebrations to honour their Aboriginal customs.Shearar owns the Salmonberry Gallery in Toronto specializing in Aboriginal art.
Source: The Association of Book Publishers of BC. Canadian Aboriginal Books for Schools. 2009-2010.