What is the meaning of American Indian art?
American Indian art respects indigenous, first-nation cultural practices. The meaning of symbols in American Indian art varies according to tribe and location, although some use of symbols overlaps.Father Sky, Mother EarthNative art depicts universal figures of male and female to represent the earth mother and sky father.Medicine WheelAmerican Indian art with a wheel in four quadrants, or four points, depicts the four cardinal directions. The medicine wheel represents equality among all natural things.Drum PaintingThe drum represents the great spirit. Drums are painted with symbols for ceremony to show reverence to the great spirit.HorseToken animals are common symbols in American Indian art. The horse is connected to the magical power of the shaman.BearBear symbols in American Indian art convey a meaning of reflection and creativity, because the bear hibernates in solitude for the winter season.RavenRaven symbols generally represent magic.
