First Nations artistry

 All Native Americans made baskets, they were a big part of daily life in tribes across the country, with patterns and geometric designs named tree pattern, leaf pattern, mountain pattern, and so on. Prized secret basket-making techniques were handed down from mother to daughter. Basket-making materials were collected in Summer. Grass was used like embroidery thread, with certain grasses being collected because of their strength and color. Roots and twigs had to be soaked just right, and generally, baskets were made from these materials in the winter months. Pictured here are some beautiful examples of basket weaving, leather work and beading which were essential skills to Native peoples.