Each student in Mrs. Kawauchi’s class painted an animal or symbol in the tradition of the Northwest Coast Native American artistic style. The tiles were painted in the traditional black and red colors. Northwest Reflections is a contemporary representation of the ancient art of the Northwest Coast Native American tribes.

 

The students learned about some of the customs, traditions and rich artistic heritage of the Northwest Coast Native Americans. Historically, possessions were enhanced with symbolic images often of animals to portray the family crests of their owners, declaring their lineage and status. Each animal is associated with important legends and stories and traditionally has mythical or spiritual meanings.

 

Due to a climate of abundance, many tribes of the Northwest Coast were able to devote much of their time to artistry especially during the winter months. This included lavish feasts and celebrations such as the winter ceremony and potlatch. (Potlatch actually is from the Nuu-chah-nulth word for “to give”.)

 

The images on the tiles are:

the thunderbird at the top, then clockwise: halibut, wolf, orca, eagle, beaver, whale, frog, wolf, sun, orca, raven, halibut, eagle, whale, fish, raven, sea lion, beaver, bear, sea lion, hand, raven, sun, wolf, moon and sea lion.

  

The artwork emphasizes the interconnectedness and harmony between people and all nature.

 

Dimensions:

Width 26”

Height 26”