9.4 Native American literature and arts
8 min read•august 21, 2024
Native American literature and arts are a vibrant part of America's cultural landscape. From ancient oral traditions to contemporary novels, these art forms reflect diverse tribal histories, spiritual beliefs, and cultural values.
Native artists blend traditional techniques with modern influences, addressing issues of and . Their work challenges stereotypes, reclaims narratives, and provides unique perspectives on the Native American experience in today's world.
Origins of Native American art
- Native American art forms integral part of Ethnic Studies curriculum, reflecting diverse cultural heritage and historical experiences
- Encompasses wide range of artistic expressions developed over thousands of years, including pottery, weaving, carving, and painting
- Serves as visual representation of Native American spiritual beliefs, cultural values, and connection to the land
Pre-Columbian artistic traditions
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- Rock art (petroglyphs and pictographs) dates back to 10,000 BCE, depicting animals, human figures, and abstract symbols
- Mound-building cultures (Adena, Hopewell, Mississippian) created elaborate earthworks and burial mounds
- Mesoamerican civilizations (Maya, Aztec) developed sophisticated architectural structures, sculptures, and codices
- North American tribes crafted intricate basketry, pottery, and wood carvings specific to their regions
Influence of European contact
- Introduction of new materials (glass beads, metal tools) led to innovation in traditional art forms
- Forced relocation and cultural suppression resulted in loss of some artistic traditions
- Trade with Europeans influenced artistic motifs and techniques (floral designs in )
- Emergence of "" as adaptation to new materials and documentation of changing lifestyles
- Creation of "" to meet demand from non-Native collectors and travelers
Traditional Native American literature
- Oral traditions form foundation of Native American literature, preserving history, culture, and spiritual beliefs
- Encompasses diverse genres including creation stories, trickster tales, and historical narratives
- Plays crucial role in Ethnic Studies by providing insight into Native American worldviews and cultural values
Oral storytelling traditions
- Passed down through generations by skilled storytellers or elders
- Incorporates performance elements (gestures, intonation, rhythm) to enhance narrative
- Serves multiple purposes (education, entertainment, spiritual guidance)
- Adapts to changing circumstances while maintaining core cultural messages
- Emphasizes interconnectedness of all living things and respect for nature
Myths and legends
- Creation stories explain origins of the world, humans, and natural phenomena
- Trickster tales (Coyote, Raven) teach moral lessons through humorous or cautionary adventures
- Hero legends celebrate cultural figures and historical events
- Animal stories often personify creatures with human traits to convey wisdom
- Incorporate explanations for natural phenomena (how the stars were formed, why the seasons change)
Native American visual arts
- Visual arts play vital role in preserving and expressing Native American cultural identity
- Techniques and styles vary widely among different tribes and regions
- Often incorporate spiritual beliefs, connection to nature, and tribal histories
Pottery and ceramics
- Southwest tribes (Pueblo, Hopi, Zuni) renowned for distinctive pottery styles
- Techniques include coil building, pinch pots, and slab construction
- Decorative elements feature geometric patterns, animal motifs, and symbolic designs
- Functional pieces (water jars, cooking pots) coexist with ceremonial and artistic creations
- Black-on-black pottery of San Ildefonso Pueblo revolutionized Native American ceramics in early 20th century
Weaving and textiles
- Navajo weaving traditions produce intricate rugs and blankets with symbolic patterns
- Chilkat blankets of Northwest Coast tribes incorporate complex curvilinear designs
- Plains tribes create star quilts combining traditional patterns with European quilting techniques
- Materials include wool, cotton, cedar bark, and plant fibers
- Patterns often tell stories or represent spiritual concepts (Spider Woman, Four Sacred Mountains)
Beadwork and jewelry
- Plains tribes developed intricate beadwork techniques for clothing and accessories
- Southwestern tribes (Zuni, Hopi, Navajo) known for silversmithing and turquoise jewelry
- Wampum belts of Eastern Woodlands tribes serve as historical records and diplomatic tools
- Porcupine quillwork predates glass beadwork as decorative technique
- Contemporary artists combine traditional techniques with modern designs and materials
Native American performing arts
- Performing arts integral to Native American cultural expression and spiritual practices
- Encompasses wide range of traditions varying by tribe and region
- Plays significant role in maintaining cultural identity and passing down knowledge
Music and dance
- Diverse musical instruments (drums, flutes, rattles) crafted from natural materials
- Vocal traditions include solo songs, group singing, and call-and-response patterns
- Powwow gatherings feature competitive and social dances from various tribes
- Hoop dance demonstrates storytelling through intricate manipulations of hoops
- movement of late 19th century combined spiritual and political elements
Ceremonial performances
- ceremony of Plains tribes involves days of fasting, prayer, and dancing
- of Southeastern tribes celebrates harvest and renewal
- of Pueblo peoples represent spirits and teach cultural values
- Potlatch ceremonies of Northwest Coast tribes involve gift-giving and status affirmation
- Many ceremonies remain private, performed only for tribal members to preserve sacred knowledge
Contemporary Native American literature
- Modern Native American literature emerged in mid-20th century as part of broader civil rights movement
- Blends traditional storytelling techniques with Western literary forms
- Addresses themes of identity, cultural preservation, and social justice
Notable Native American authors
- (Kiowa) won Pulitzer Prize for "House Made of Dawn" (1969)
- (Laguna Pueblo) wrote influential novel "Ceremony" (1977)
- (Ojibwe) explores multigenerational stories in novels like "Love Medicine"
- (Spokane/Coeur d'Alene) gained recognition for "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven"
- (Muscogee Creek) served as first Native American U.S. Poet Laureate (2019-2022)
Themes in modern Native literature
- Exploration of cultural identity and navigating between traditional and modern worlds
- Reclaiming and retelling historical narratives from Native perspectives
- Addressing contemporary issues facing Native communities (poverty, alcoholism, land rights)
- Incorporating elements of and traditional storytelling techniques
- Challenging stereotypes and misrepresentations of Native peoples in mainstream media
Modern Native American art movements
- Contemporary Native American art combines traditional techniques with modern influences
- Addresses issues of identity, sovereignty, and cultural preservation through various media
- Gains recognition in mainstream art world while maintaining connection to tribal heritage
Native American Renaissance
- Period of cultural revitalization beginning in 1960s coinciding with civil rights movement
- Increased interest in traditional arts and crafts among younger generations
- Establishment of Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe (1962) as major catalyst
- Revival of traditional techniques combined with contemporary artistic expressions
- Growing recognition of Native American art in museums and galleries
Contemporary visual artists
- Fritz Scholder (Luiseño) challenged stereotypical depictions of Native Americans in painting
- Jaune Quick-to-See Smith (Salish/Kootenai) creates mixed-media works addressing political issues
- James Luna (Luiseño) pioneered performance art exploring Native identity and stereotypes
- Wendy Red Star (Apsáalooke/Crow) uses photography and installation to examine cultural representations
- Jeffrey Gibson (Choctaw/Cherokee) combines Native American aesthetics with contemporary art forms
Symbolism in Native American art
- Symbolism plays crucial role in conveying cultural values, spiritual beliefs, and tribal histories
- Varies widely among different tribes and regions
- Interpretation often requires understanding of specific cultural contexts
Animal symbolism
- Eagle represents spiritual strength and connection to the divine in many tribes
- Bear symbolizes healing, strength, and introspection
- Turtle associated with longevity, wisdom, and creation stories in some cultures
- Thunderbird powerful supernatural being in various tribal mythologies
- Coyote often portrayed as trickster figure teaching lessons through misadventures
Nature and spiritual symbols
- (North, South, East, West) hold significance in many tribal belief systems
- Circle represents unity, wholeness, and the cyclical nature of life
- Spiral symbolizes growth, change, and the journey of life
- Feathers carry spiritual significance and often used in ceremonial contexts
- represents balance and interconnectedness of all aspects of life
Native American art vs Western art
- Comparison highlights different cultural values, artistic philosophies, and historical contexts
- Raises questions about representation, authenticity, and cultural exchange in art world
Differences in artistic philosophy
- Native American art often emphasizes communal and spiritual purposes over individual expression
- Western art traditionally focuses on realistic representation and individual artistic genius
- Native art frequently incorporates functional objects as part of artistic tradition
- Western art historically separates "fine art" from "craft" or "applied arts"
- Native American art often views creative process as sacred or spiritually significant
- Western art emphasizes innovation and breaking from tradition as markers of artistic value
Cultural appropriation issues
- Unauthorized use of Native American designs and symbols in fashion and commercial products
- Misrepresentation of sacred objects or ceremonial items as decorative art
- Non-Native artists creating "Native-inspired" work without proper understanding or permission
- Debates over ownership and repatriation of Native American artifacts in museums
- Challenges in distinguishing between cultural appreciation and appropriation in artistic practices
Preservation of Native American arts
- Efforts to preserve and revitalize Native American artistic traditions face numerous challenges
- Balances need for cultural continuity with adaptation to changing circumstances
- Involves collaboration between tribal communities, cultural institutions, and educational organizations
Museums and cultural centers
- National Museum of the American Indian (Washington D.C.) showcases diverse Native cultures
- Heard Museum (Phoenix) specializes in Native American art of the Southwest
- Tribal museums (Mashantucket Pequot Museum, Ziibiwing Center) focus on specific tribal histories
- Cultural centers provide spaces for artistic creation, education, and community gatherings
- Debates over repatriation of sacred objects and human remains under Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA)
Efforts to revitalize traditions
- Apprenticeship programs pair master artists with younger generations to pass on skills
- Language revitalization efforts support preservation of oral traditions and storytelling
- Digital archives document and preserve traditional knowledge and artistic techniques
- Art markets and fairs provide economic opportunities for Native artists
- Incorporation of traditional arts into contemporary Native American education curricula
Native American literature in education
- Inclusion of Native American literature in educational settings promotes cultural understanding
- Challenges dominant narratives and provides diverse perspectives on American history and culture
- Raises awareness of contemporary Native American issues and experiences
Inclusion in school curricula
- Growing efforts to incorporate Native American literature into K-12 reading lists
- Development of culturally responsive teaching materials and lesson plans
- Challenges in selecting appropriate texts and avoiding stereotypical representations
- Emphasis on teaching works by Native authors rather than non-Native interpretations
- Incorporation of oral storytelling traditions alongside written texts
Representation in academic studies
- Establishment of Native American Studies programs at universities across United States
- Interdisciplinary approach combining literature, history, anthropology, and cultural studies
- Increased scholarship on Native American literature and its place in American literary canon
- Debates over methodologies for studying and interpreting Native American texts
- Growing number of Native American scholars contributing to academic discourse in field
Impact of Native arts on popular culture
- Native American artistic traditions have influenced various aspects of mainstream culture
- Raises questions about authenticity, representation, and cultural exchange
Influence on fashion and design
- Native-inspired patterns and motifs incorporated into clothing and accessories
- Turquoise and silver jewelry styles popularized beyond Southwest
- Dreamcatchers adopted as decorative items in non-Native contexts
- Controversy over use of Native American imagery in sports team logos and mascots
- High-end fashion designers drawing inspiration from traditional Native designs
Native American art in media
- Increased representation of Native American characters and stories in film and television
- Native American music gaining recognition in mainstream music industry (rock, hip-hop)
- Indigenous filmmakers creating works that challenge stereotypical portrayals
- Video games incorporating Native American themes and characters (never alone, Assassin's Creed III)
- Growing presence of Native American artists and performers at major cultural events and festivals
Key Terms to Review (31)
American Indian Movement: The American Indian Movement (AIM) is a grassroots organization founded in 1968 that aims to advocate for Native American rights, sovereignty, and cultural preservation. It emerged in response to systemic injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in the United States, focusing on issues such as treaty rights, land reclamation, and cultural identity. AIM is known for its activism, including protests and demonstrations that sought to bring attention to the challenges and rights of Native American communities.
Animal symbolism: Animal symbolism refers to the use of animals to represent ideas, emotions, and characteristics in literature and art. In many cultures, including Native American traditions, specific animals are imbued with unique meanings and attributes that reflect cultural values, beliefs, and the interconnectedness of all living things.
Beadwork: Beadwork refers to the art of creating decorative items by stringing together beads, which can be made from various materials like glass, stone, or bone. In Native American cultures, beadwork holds deep significance, serving both functional and ceremonial purposes, while also acting as a means of cultural expression and storytelling.
Cultural Appropriation: Cultural appropriation is the act of taking or using elements from one culture, often by individuals or groups from a different, often more dominant culture, without permission or understanding of the original context. This can lead to misunderstandings and misrepresentations of the original culture, which is especially relevant when considering issues of power dynamics and historical exploitation.
Cultural preservation: Cultural preservation refers to the efforts made to maintain, protect, and promote the unique cultural identities, practices, and heritage of different groups. This concept emphasizes the importance of safeguarding traditions, languages, and artifacts that define a community's identity, especially in the face of external pressures such as globalization, migration, and assimilation. The practice of cultural preservation can be seen across various movements and celebrations that aim to celebrate and sustain cultural identities over time.
Dawes Act: The Dawes Act, passed in 1887, was a federal law aimed at assimilating Native Americans into American society by allotting them individual parcels of land and granting them U.S. citizenship. This act sought to break up communal tribal lands into smaller, individually owned plots, which was seen as a way to promote farming and self-sufficiency among Native Americans. However, it ultimately resulted in significant loss of tribal land and cultural identity, significantly impacting Native American literature and arts as these changes disrupted traditional practices and ways of life.
Folktale: A folktale is a traditional narrative that originates from the oral storytelling traditions of a culture, often featuring fantastical elements, moral lessons, and characters that embody cultural values. Folktales are integral to preserving cultural heritage and are used to convey teachings, entertain, and share communal wisdom across generations.
Four directions: The four directions refer to the cardinal points of North, South, East, and West, which hold significant spiritual and cultural meanings in many Native American traditions. Each direction is associated with specific elements, colors, and qualities that inform the worldview and practices of various Indigenous peoples, serving as a framework for understanding life, nature, and the interconnectedness of all things.
Ghost dance: The ghost dance is a spiritual movement among Native American tribes that emerged in the late 19th century, particularly among the Plains Indians. It was characterized by a religious dance aimed at restoring deceased ancestors and bringing about a return to traditional ways of life, as well as the hope for peace and harmony in the face of colonization and oppression. The movement is often linked to a broader context of Native American resistance to U.S. government policies and cultural assimilation.
Green corn ceremony: The green corn ceremony is a traditional Native American harvest festival celebrated by various tribes, marking the time of the corn harvest and giving thanks for the crops. This event is rich in cultural significance, often involving rituals, feasting, dancing, and communal gatherings that reflect the values and beliefs of the community, reinforcing social bonds and spiritual connections to the land.
Identity: Identity refers to the understanding and expression of who we are as individuals or members of a group, shaped by various factors such as culture, ethnicity, gender, and personal experiences. It encompasses the ways people perceive themselves and are perceived by others, often reflecting complex intersections between personal and collective narratives.
Indian Removal Act: The Indian Removal Act, enacted in 1830, was a law that authorized the forced relocation of Native American tribes living east of the Mississippi River to designated territories west of the river. This act resulted in significant suffering and displacement for thousands of Native Americans, as it aimed to open up their lands for white settlers and agricultural development, ultimately leading to tragic events like the Trail of Tears.
Indigeneity: Indigeneity refers to the quality of being indigenous, which encompasses the unique cultural, social, and political identities of indigenous peoples. It highlights their connection to ancestral lands, languages, and traditions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their distinct ways of life in the face of colonialism and globalization. Understanding indigeneity is crucial for recognizing the struggles and contributions of indigenous communities, especially in literature and arts that reflect their experiences and perspectives.
Joy Harjo: Joy Harjo is a prominent Native American poet, playwright, and author, recognized for her profound contributions to contemporary Native American literature. As the first Native American Poet Laureate of the United States, her work often intertwines themes of Indigenous identity, spirituality, and social justice, reflecting her personal experiences and cultural heritage.
Kachina dances: Kachina dances are traditional ceremonial performances by Native American tribes, particularly the Hopi and Zuni, that depict the spiritual beings known as Kachinas. These dances are integral to religious rituals and social events, embodying the beliefs, stories, and cultural values of the communities. Through elaborate costumes and symbolic movements, kachina dances serve as a means to connect with the spiritual world, educate younger generations, and reinforce cultural identity.
Ledger art: Ledger art refers to a distinctive form of Native American drawing or painting that emerged in the 19th century, characterized by its use of ledger books as a canvas. This art form allowed Indigenous artists to document their histories, experiences, and cultural narratives, often depicting battles, personal achievements, and daily life. The transition from traditional materials to ledger books reflects both adaptation and resilience in the face of colonization.
Leslie Marmon Silko: Leslie Marmon Silko is a prominent Native American author and poet, best known for her contributions to Native American literature. She blends storytelling traditions and contemporary themes, drawing upon her Laguna Pueblo heritage to explore identity, culture, and the complexities of modern Native life. Her works often highlight the interconnectedness of nature and spirituality, as well as the importance of oral traditions in preserving history.
Louise Erdrich: Louise Erdrich is a prominent Native American author known for her novels, poetry, and essays that explore themes of indigenous identity, cultural heritage, and the complexities of life in Native American communities. Her work is integral to the landscape of contemporary Native American literature, reflecting the challenges and resilience of Native peoples through richly woven narratives and deep character development.
Magical realism: Magical realism is a literary and artistic genre that blends magical elements with realistic settings and events, creating a unique narrative where the extraordinary is treated as part of everyday life. This genre often reflects cultural, historical, and social realities, enabling a deeper exploration of complex issues such as identity, power, and tradition. It invites readers to perceive the world through a lens that combines the familiar with the fantastical, often revealing hidden truths about society and human experience.
Medicine Wheel: The Medicine Wheel is a symbolic representation used by many Indigenous peoples in North America that embodies the interconnectedness of all life and the cyclical nature of existence. It is often depicted as a circle divided into four sections, representing different aspects of life, such as the four directions, seasons, elements, and stages of human development, emphasizing balance and harmony in life.
Myth: A myth is a traditional story that often explains natural or social phenomena, incorporating elements of gods, heroes, and cultural beliefs. Myths are essential in shaping identities and understanding the world, serving as a means for communities to convey values, morals, and historical events. In the context of Native American literature and arts, myths play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, teaching lessons about life, and connecting present generations with ancestral traditions.
N. Scott Momaday: N. Scott Momaday is a prominent Native American author and poet, known for his works that celebrate the richness of Native American culture and history. His writing often blends traditional storytelling with contemporary themes, making him a significant figure in Native American literature and arts. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1969 for his novel 'House Made of Dawn,' which is credited with bringing Native American voices into mainstream literature.
Native American Renaissance: The Native American Renaissance refers to a significant cultural revival and flourishing of Native American literature, art, and identity that began in the 1960s and continued into the 1980s. This period marked a time when Indigenous voices gained prominence, reflecting the struggles, traditions, and contemporary experiences of Native peoples in the United States. The renaissance not only highlighted literary works but also sparked interest in traditional art forms, promoting a broader understanding of Native American cultures.
Native Arts and Cultures Foundation: The Native Arts and Cultures Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the arts and cultures of Native American peoples. It aims to enhance the visibility and appreciation of Indigenous artists, facilitating cultural exchange and community engagement while preserving traditional practices and fostering contemporary expressions.
Oral tradition: Oral tradition refers to the practice of passing down stories, histories, and cultural knowledge through spoken word rather than written texts. This method of storytelling has played a crucial role in preserving the heritage, beliefs, and values of many cultures, especially within Indigenous communities. In the context of Native American literature and arts, oral tradition is not just a means of communication but also a vital art form that shapes identity and community bonds.
Sherman Alexie: Sherman Alexie is a prominent Native American author, poet, and filmmaker known for his powerful storytelling that reflects the experiences of Native Americans in contemporary society. His work often blends humor and poignancy, addressing themes such as identity, culture, and the struggles faced by Indigenous peoples in a modern context. Through his narratives, Alexie has significantly contributed to Native American literature, offering insights into life on reservations and the complexities of cultural heritage.
Sun Dance: The Sun Dance is a significant ceremonial event practiced by various Indigenous peoples of North America, particularly the Plains tribes. This ritual is a time for spiritual renewal, healing, and community bonding, involving music, dance, and often physical endurance tests, where participants may pierce their skin as an offering. The Sun Dance reflects deep cultural values, serving as a powerful expression of identity and resilience within Native American literature and arts.
The Circle: The circle is a fundamental shape in Native American culture, symbolizing unity, interconnectedness, and the cyclical nature of life. It represents the idea that all beings are part of a larger whole, where everything is connected and each part plays an important role in the balance of life. This concept is reflected in various forms of Native American literature and arts, where narratives and artistic expressions often circle back to core themes of harmony, balance, and community.
The trickster: The trickster is a common figure in many Native American stories, often depicted as a cunning, mischievous character who challenges the norms and conventions of society. These characters play a significant role in conveying important lessons and cultural values, often using humor and wit to navigate challenges and provoke thought. Tricksters can be both creators and destroyers, reflecting the dual nature of existence and the complexity of human experience.
Totem poles: Totem poles are monumental sculptures created by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast, carved from large trees and often featuring a series of figures that represent ancestral spirits, clan lineage, and important cultural narratives. These poles serve both decorative and ceremonial purposes, reflecting the rich history and identity of the communities that create them.
Tourist art: Tourist art refers to art forms and crafts that are created primarily for the purpose of selling to tourists. This type of art often reflects local culture, traditions, and aesthetics but can sometimes prioritize commercial appeal over authenticity. It plays a significant role in the representation of Native American culture, as it allows artists to engage with visitors while navigating the complexities of cultural preservation and commercialization.