Book Description
This book contains step-by-step instructions and illustrations on the basics of drawing, designing, painting and carving in the art style of the Northwest Pacific mid coast, particularly of the Kwakwaka'wakw (Kwakiutl) Nation. By doing the art, understanding of not only style and form, but also pride in cultural heritage is achieved. The concepts in Learning by Doing are now being practiced by artists in every media, hobbyists of all kinds and educators of both Native and non-Native students, young and old. Fifteen educationally based concepts are arranged from simple to complex, with each step building on the previous. The first six concepts are single elements of the art such as ovoids, split 'U's and their variations, and the next nine concepts combine the first five so that the elements begin to have meaning. They represent, in the abstract, the animals and spirits in nature. In addition to drawing and painting, readers can also learn to carve knife handles, bas-relief plaques, a serving tray and a ceremonial paddle. Over 300 black and white detailed illustrations and 32 photos enhance and clarify the straightforward instructions.