Living in relative isolation due to the geographic
barriers of the Sierra Mountains and Dessert on
the East and the Pacific Ocean on the West, the
Indigenous Peoples of California developed unique
art expressions reflecting their varied interactions
with topography and flora and fauna of the region.
In pre-contact times the area was densely populated
by many small and scattered Tribes, speaking from
several linguistic families.
Influences from the Southwestern Tribes however
did occur in the Pottery of the Mojaves and the
painting with sand in the puberty rites for young
boys. The use of the narcotic from Jimson weed
was incorporated in an ancient ceremony probably
developed in the region. In the Central portion
of the region, baskets were highly developed and
the techniques used were incredibly diverse. Those
produced for ceremonies and daily use are regarded
as the best in the world.
In the North of the region of California some
Influences are obvious from the groups of the
Northwest Coast Peoples. Plank houses, rod and
slat armor and basketry hats being some of the
similarities. Carving of wood objects both for
religious and utilitarian uses is highly esteemed.
Elk Antler for spoons, Yew wood paddles, storage
boxes, seats and headrests as well as dugout canoes
from Cedar are artfully done and reflect the particular
ingenuity of their culture. By far, the incredible
sophistication and development of designs in basketry,
coupled with the knowledge of native plant materials
for weaving is the most important artistic accomplishment
of Early California People. |
