Honoring Native American Artists in the Northwest Art Collection

The artistic traditions of the many Native cultures of the Northwest stretch back many generations. Artistically decorated objects created and used in these cultures play a number of important roles, ranging from daily tasks to cultural and spiritual functions.

Tacoma Art Museum’s Northwest art collection does not include historical material by Native artisans and artists. Our collection starts with later 20th century Native artists whose works bridge both historical and contemporary practice.

In-depth collections preserving the historic artistic traditions of many Northwest Native peoples may be found at tribal and regional museums and cultural centers throughout the Northwest.