Common Symbolic Creatures:
Spiritual Realms of Earth, Sky and Water
All realms of existence (water, earth, sky, and the land of beyond) were interconnected. Spiritual beings were thought to have the ability to pass among the three realms.
These definitions are commonly attributed to the birds, fish, animals, people and mythological creatures used in Western tribal arts. Some tribes may have different meanings.
Apply these patterns to glass etching techniques or creatively sponge paint stenciling designs to trim your walls or ceramics or decorate wooden furniture.
Children can trace the totempole patterns onto multicolored foam sheets or colorful felt cloth to create soft totems and ethnic theme masks. Create treasured gifts and family heirlooms to hand down to future generations with needlework and embroidery on pillows or tapestry.
Meanings of Symbols and Totem Pole Creatures
There are only three kingdoms or spiritual realms in totem pole folklore:
Earth Realm Earth realm characters include animals such as bears, beavers and wolves, who walk on land.- Sky Realm characters primarily include Thunderbirds, eagles and ravens.
- Underwater World characters are powerful beings who live deep within whirlpools under the sea.
