Mythic Beings : Spirit Art of the Northwest Coast

Catalogue to accompany an exhibition presenting 75 works representing of Aboriginal mythic beings, by 34 contemporary First Nations artists from the Northwest Coast of North America. Wyatt’s introductory essay outlines the role of art and ceremony in the spiritual life of Northwest Coast societies. He situates the works from the exhibition within the context of First Nations cosmology, mythology and history. Other topics discussed include the use of masks in ritual performances and ceremonial dances such as the potlatch, as well as the use of traditional and non-traditional materials. Includes a photograph of each work in the exhibition, artists' statements and a map indicating regions occupied by First Nations peoples of the Northwest Coast. List of works. Brief biographical notes on the artists and author. 4 bibl. ref