Exploring Animal Symbolism in Native American Art

At the Indian Pueblo Store, we work to connect you with resources and information to enhance your understanding of Native American art and artists of the Southwest in a meaningful way. It is our hope that this guide to animal symbolism helps enhance your understanding and appreciation of American Indian Art and the ways in which artists incorporate reverence, respect, and deep meaning within their artwork.

Protectors

Symbols of protection are frequently represented throughout Native American Art with mountain lions. Their keen eyesight, stealth, and agility serve as the guardians of the north. The bear, with its strength, guards the west. The determined badger is the guardian of the south. The wolf, with its strong sense of family, is the guardian of the east. Soaring above us is the eagle, known as the guardian of the skies. The mole, with its ability to sense and understand the darkness, is the guardian below. Often depicted with a heartline, these protectors are cherished and become treasured items in any collection.

Longevity & Self-Reliance

Across the hot desert Southwest lives the tortoise, and along rivers, streams, and lakes lives the turtle. Both are highly regarded animals respected for their longevity, self-reliance, and tenacity. One of the oldest symbols representing Mother Earth, the turtle is also symbolic in many Native American creation stories.

The Giver of Life

Symbolism representing water can be seen across many types of Native American art. From the coming of rain depicted through cloud motifs to the flowing water painted on pottery, to the animals like the turtles and frogs carved by Zuni Pueblo carvers. One symbol that is often seen is the Avanyu, the water serpent that brought the water and shaped the rivers throughout the Southwest.

Native American artists are known for their uncanny ability to spark inspiration through their work. Not only is the artwork beautiful, but it is also filled with meaning both in the stories and traditions passed down through generations of artists and in the rich symbolism that animals and other symbols represent. At the Indian Pueblo Store, we like to say we are your trusted connection to Native American Art. For more information, subscribe to our newsletter.

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