T H E H I S T O R Y O F...
“Symbol is a colossal word. In religion, literature and art, symbolism has engrossed and fascinated the ages. One of the greatest games of civilization is the creation of symbols, their concealment, uncovering, interpretation and study.� David Gibbs
“Humans talk, write, sing, smell and gesture. We erect signs or barriers to communicate messages to other people. We constantly produce and interpret signs and codes. But even if no-one intends to communicate anything, sign processes are continuously taking place: A doctor interprets the symptoms of a disease, a dog follows a trail, a thief triggers an alarm.� Werner Hammerstingl
Nomad Games - Symbols - Semiotics
How did they communicate?
Native American designs used in their symbols and signs were usually based on geometric portrayals of celestial or heavenly bodies such as the sun and stars, natural phenomena such as thunderstorms and animal designs including serpents and spiders.
Symbols and signs were used for a variety of different reasons in the Native American culture and were depicted on numerous objects and articles used by the men and women of the tribes.
The War paint that used by Indian warriors contained secret symbols and signs and even horses were painted. as many were spiritual in nature conveying various religious beliefs. Other conveyed immediately identifiable secret messages to other tribe members.
Nine Mile Canyon
Pictograms were also used by Native Americans for practical purposes such as recording important events, providing directions, indicating good hunting areas or as warning signs and symbols. An Ideagram is another form of pictogram which conveys complex ideas, feelings and emotions.