Mythic Beings - Softcover

Watt, Gary

Softcover

ISBN 10: 9057035324 ISBN 13: 9789057035326

Publisher: Craftsman House, 1999

Synopsis

Hard to Find book

About this title

Synopsis:

This volume presents an outstanding collection of 75 compelling works by 34 of the best First Nations artist working on the Northwest Coast today. The power of their art comes from its deep roots in an ancient culture that is rich in ceremonial and aesthetic traditions. The mythic beings depicted in these works belong to the undersea, sky, mortal and spirit worlds: Raven, Thunderbird, Killerwhale, the chief of the undersea, Moon, Volcano Woman and many more. Their adventures are told in oral histories passed down through generations. Her, these myths and mythic beings take shape as model totem poles, jewellery, carved and painted boxes, painted drums, rattles, ceremonial robes and masks - as well as sculpture in argillite, wood and glass. The challenge facing artists today is to interpret myths in ways that combine innovation and tradition. That Northwest Coast art continues to flourish both in its original cultural context and in the international art world is a measure of their success. The author introduction outlines the integral place of art in the ceremonial and spiritual life of Northwest Coast societies.

He provides insights into the cosmology of the Northwest Coast, as well as retelling some of the major myths. In addition, each work is accompanied by the artist's own words describing its meaning, cultural significance and creation. featured artists include: Wayne Alfred, Dempsey Bob, Stephen Bruce, Delores Churchill, Alfred Collison, Joe David, Reg Davidson, Robert Davidson, Simon Dick, Freda Diesing, Gerry Dudoward, Chuck Heit (Ya'ya), Francis Horne, Richard Hunt, Bill Kuhnley, Ken McNeil, Tim Paul, Susan Point, Victor Reece, Isabel Rorick, Larry Rosso, Ron Russ, Cheryl Samuel, Lionel Samuels, Preston Singletary, Don Svanvik, Norman Tait, Glenn Tallio, Marven Tallio, Tsa-qua-supp (Art Thompson), Lucinda Turner, Evelyn Vanderhoop, Christian White, and Lyle Wilson.

About this edition

• Publisher: Craftsman House
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 9057035324
• ISBN 13: 9789057035326
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160