Artists along the Northwest Coast are known for their woodcarving and weaving.
1600 C.E.–present
Beginner's Guide
videos + essays
We're adding new content all the time!
Northern Northwest Coast Art
Indigenous peoples on the Northwest Coast created one of the world's great art traditions, renowned for its monumental poles, its complex two-dimensional design system, advanced weaving techniques, and literary wealth.
The Chief Johnson Totem Pole
Learn about the story of Fog Woman and Raven and the generations of this totem pole from the Tlingit
The story of the Oyster Man, a Tlingit totem pole
Learn the story behind this totem pole that no longer stands.
Dorica Jackson, Diving Whale Chilkat Robe
Dorica Jackson spent 16 years weaving this robe with an abstract whale design and fringe that would animate the movements of a dancer
Northwest Coast Basketry—Woven Traditions
The American Museum of Natural History is updating, restoring, and conserving the historic Northwest Coast Hall, including more than 800 Northwest Coast collections pieces, in consultation with several Pacific Northwest Coast communities.
Bentwood Boxes of the Northwest Coast peoples
The body of this box is made of one piece of wood carefully bent into its four sides.
Tlingit mortuary and memorial totem poles
Learn about two types of totem poles from the Tlingit people of the Pacific Northwest Coast that memorialize individuals who have passed.
Arctic clothing
In the Arctic, where temperatures are below freezing for most of the year, warm clothing is of great importance.
Proud Raven totem pole at Saxman Totem Park
A totem pole records Tlingit claims to land by acknowledging the first sighting of a white man, who is based on the likeness of Abraham Lincoln.
Haida Totem Pole, from Old Kasaan
A 19th-century totem pole from Old Kasaan village of the Haida helps us to understand the meaning and function of clan crests.
Clarissa Rizal, Resilience Robe
This prestigious garment follows a traditional design passed down through generations of Indigenous Alaskans.
