The Sasquatch in Northwest Coast Native Art: Meaning and Symbolism
Introduction
The Sasquatch is a recurring figure in Northwest Coast Native art symbolism, appearing in both traditional and contemporary Indigenous artworks. Sasquatch is often associated with strength, transformation, mystery, and a connection to the natural world. These themes reflect cultural knowledge shaped by place, oral history, and artistic lineage.
The term Sasquatch is an anglicized form of Sesquac, or Sesq’ec. Indigenous cultures across North America use more than 60 different names for Sasquatch. Settlers and non-Native writers later referred to the figure as Bigfoot or Mountain Devil.
As with many Northwest Coast Native art symbols, its meaning can vary depending on the Nation, story, or artist interpreting it.
Cultural Context and Regional Meaning
The Sasquatch appears across Northwest Coast Native art, with distinct interpretations among Nations such as the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwakaʼwakw, and other Pacific Northwest communities. In some cultural traditions, people understand Sasquatch as a forest being or guardian who embodies the power and spirit of the land. In others, it represents a boundary figure between human and non-human worlds, reinforcing teachings about respect, humility, and balance with nature.
Sasquatch has been part of Indigenous stories and culture for millennia. Indigenous peoples portray the creature in petroglyphs and share sightings through oral histories. These stories often teach moral lessons, warning against disrespecting nature or wandering too far into the forest.
Visual Characteristics in Northwest Coast Art
In Northwest Coast design, artists often depict the Sasquatch with bold formline shapes, a strong upright posture, pronounced hands or feet, and expressive facial features. Artists may emphasize movement, scale, or physical strength to convey its presence and power. These visual elements make the Sasquatch recognizable within Native art iconography, appearing in carvings, paintings, and limited edition screen prints.
Symbolic Themes and Interpretation
The Sasquatch commonly symbolizes strength, protection, mystery, and connection to the natural and spiritual worlds. It may also reflect themes of transformation and respect for unseen forces.
Contemporary Use in Indigenous Art
Contemporary Northwest Coast artists continue to feature the Sasquatch in modern works, including limited edition screen prints. These artworks honor traditional teachings while exploring new forms, colours, and stylistic approaches, allowing viewers and collectors to engage with living cultural knowledge and evolving artistic expression.
Collecting and Understanding the Artwork
Understanding the meaning of Sasquatch in Native art enriches appreciation for Northwest Coast artworks. Collectors who recognize its symbolic significance engage more respectfully with the culture and develop a deeper connection to the stories and teachings each piece carries.
Explore Related Works
Explore our collection of Sasquatch-themed screen prints and Northwest Coast art that highlight this powerful symbol in contemporary Indigenous art: Sts’aamu qwus
Related Reading
Native Art Symbolism: Stories, Meaning and Cultural Knowledge
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