Culture in Canada - First Nations and Inuit Art
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First Nations and Inuit Art
For Aboriginal peoples in Canada, art is an excellent way to promote cultural
identity and instill pride in Aboriginal heritage. Indian and Inuit Art, which
is sought after worldwide, is also a significant economic activity. In the past,
Aboriginal art carved from bone, ivory and wood included birds, bears and other
land and sea animals, human figures, masks and maskettes, and face clusters.
It is believed that these works had a definite magic or religious intent, and
that they were worn as amulets or used in shamanic rituals. Since 1984, Canadian
Inuit artists have produced a brilliant art in carvings of stone, ivory, antler
and whalebone, as well as drawings, paintings and prints. Such artists as carver
Karoo Ashevak, and printmakers Pudlo, Parr and Jessie Oonark, create works that,
while they embrace the forms and techniques of the Euramerican artist, are distinctly
representative of their own culture and their unique perception of the Canadian
landscape. Canada's native artists, including Haida sculptor, Bill Reid, and
painters, Alex Janvier and Norval Morrisseau, reach deep into the traditions
and techniques of their ancestors, while continually expanding their vision
to create works that are universally compelling.
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