From
the Rocky Mountains to the Mississippi Valley
and from Canada to Texas The Plains comprises
a remarkable variety of topography. Just as well
the early Peoples inhabiting this vast area reflected
through their culture, exhibit a vast range of
accomplishments in artistic expression.
The Plains cultural mosaic
fluoresced upon the introduction of the horse.
Before the introduction the Plains was only sparsely
populated with the semi-sedentary groups practicing
some agricultural and hunting. The horse gave
the people of this area the mobility to hunt and
follow the Bison in its seasonal wonderings.
The importance of warfare
the accepted method of gaining prestige and the
practice of religious ceremonies like the Sun
Dance were the most salient features of Culture
on the Plains. The people produced artistic objects
in great variety throughout the Plains. Certain
traits were in common throughout the region, however
among divergent groups, stylistic differences
are distinguished by distinct design elements.
Painting on hide, Quill and beadwork and carving
in wood and stone are all produced with unique
qualities reflecting a group's particular circumstance
and ritual regimens.
In addition there was
great influence coming from all areas adjacent
to the Plains. Quillwork from the Northeast influenced
the color and technique used in adjacent areas.
In the Southwest the qualities reflected from
the Pueblo were evident in a more sparse simplified
decoration. With the introduction of the horse
came also trade goods; wool blankets, steel knives,
needles, dyes and paint used for all manner of
things. Foreign design concepts along with the
tools traded helped to greatly evolve the artistic
expressions of the people in the region. |
