There really is no style of home decorating that
can be identified as decidedly Native American. There
are however touches that can be added to almost any
style of décor. The trick is always a matter of
incorporating these things without making them seem out
of place. Of all the design styles that exist, and of
course depending on the tribe in question, the
southwestern style of home decorating and design would
actually make a good match for many Native American
artifacts, touches, and artwork.
Pottery is central to a Native American theme. Different
tribes had different styles of creating pottery. If you
have a favorite tribe or a favorite style of pottery you
may want to build the remainder of the room or design
area around the pottery you love as it is quite personal
to many people and not all styles of pottery will match
all other styles of weaving, carving, basket making, or
artwork. Pottery is very useful in a kitchen if you plan
to use some of it in this room. Not only can most
pottery be baked when cooking but it also works wonders
for storing things like utensils that you would like to
have in reach, strays, napkins, and any other things you
can think to store within the pottery you have
available. If you are going to pay for it you may as
well put it to good use.
Speaking of artwork. There are some beautiful Native
American prints as well as some 'sand art' that is a
must have for a room that is trying to capture the
spirit of the Native American or at least a specific
tribe and incorporate that spirit into their homes. I
think this is a beautiful idea for those who wish to pay
their respects to those who are ancestors to many of us.
Not that the pottery mentioned above isn't art work in
and of itself but the addition of art that can be placed
on the wall is a welcome addition in many homes.
Keep in mind also that many Native Americans played the
flute. Some people display a collection of Native
American flutes next to their prized pieces of art.
There really is no wrong way to go about home decorating
when it is your own home that is being decorated. Select
the things you like, omit the things you do not like.
You do not even have to be loyal to one tripe, design,
style, or region when decorating your home. Some people
have happy little collections that are filled with all
kinds of odds and ends pieces from a wide variety of
artistic styles along the way.
For those who are hoping to stick with a somewhat Native
American theme baskets are once again a good selection
to add to the collection. Baskets are not only lovely
but also incredibly useful for holding blankets, throws,
rugs, pillows, knitting supplies, magazines, and
anything else you do not wish to have cluttering the
living spaces of your home. They are even quite good
about hiding remote controls for the electronic
equipment when you place them cleverly throughout the
room.
The best suggestion for those who wish to honor their
Native American neighbors and ancestors by incorporating
the artwork and designs into their home decorating plans
is not to spend too much time planning. The Native
Americans appreciated nature and allowing many things to
happen naturally. Use this opportunity to learn this
very important lesson while incorporating other great
things you appreciate about them into your home.