Final year project: Research- Native American Symbols, Colours and Meaning

Native Americans over time have a set style that uses nature and land to create everything from clothing, weapons and houses. Looking closely at clothing and the decoration they create made me want to find out more. What were these designs or symbols? Are they used for a reason?
With these questions in mind i have done a little research into the symbols the meaning when used.

Symbols and Meaning

Native Americans have and use many different symbols to convey messages to one another. Most symbols are pictograms which were based on the sun, moon and stars, thunderstorms or animals. These would be used to help document important events that had occurred , warning signs or even just to provide directions. Native American Warriors also used the symbols not only on themselves but their horses as war paint. Symbols also have a spiritual reassurance for members of the community that guardian spirits are near and watching over them.

War Symbols and Colour meaning

Many Native American tribes painted symbols on their bodies, faces and horses for events such as battle or rituals.Every mark used anywhere on their bodies had a meaning. Designs that were used were believed to have magical powers for protection or to reflect on their achievements. Such as the wavy line (see image below) was believed to hold the power of giving the warrior added power and speed.

Using colour for war paint also plays a huge part in the meaning of the symbol with each colour representing something different. The image below explains each meaning.

Clothing

Symbols are also used on clothing that they wear for decoration or to show occupation. For example a doctor would usually have a garment with a certain pattern on to show this. Also some patters symbolize elements such as fire or water (see image below).