Mythic Beings: Spirit Art of the Northwest Coast

by Gary Wyatt

"Mythic Beings" brings together 80 outstanding works by 20 contemporary artists that powerfully interpret Northwest Coast myths and legends. These works include totem poles, argillite sculptures, jewelry in silver and gold, carved and painted boxes, painted drums, and masks. They depict beings of the forest, sea, sky, and spirit worlds: Raven, Thunderbird, Salmon Bringer, Volcano Woman, and many more.

Accompanying each work are a retelling of the myth associated with it and comments from the artist on the myth's meaning, as well as stories related to the creation of the work.

Gary Wyatt's introduction discusses the evolution of contemporary Northwest Coast art, touching on major international commissions and exhibitions, and landmark pieces. It also discusses the relevance of myth and legend in contemporary Native society, and the changes and interpretations that have been introduced over the past three decades.

Genres: Art, Mythology, Nonfiction, Native American, Read For School

144 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1999

Reviews

[Belle Meade School]

704.03

[Jeffrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a photo book of 75 works by the Cannon of Northwest Coast artists circa 1958 and updated for 1997.So here you have the best of Freda Diesing, Robert Davidson,Simon Dick, the outlaw Demsey Bob, Lionel Samuels and others.Preston Singletary's glass work is beautifully photographed as is Robert Davidson's SPIRIT of CEDAR-T'suu Sganwee- Just a gorgeous book to hold.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully photographed contemporary NW Native American art, with commentary by the artists and a short introduction covering the mythology and cosmology of these peoples. I enjoyed it very much.

[Kasi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has photographs of beautiful northwest coastal art but also the mythology or stories behind them.

[Christopher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great artwork and photographs with revealing artist commentary.