The Plains Indians: Artists of Earth and Sky by Gaylord Torrence, Book, copyright 2014

The Plains Indians: Artists of Earth and Sky is one of the most important Native American art publications produced in recent decades. Published in conjunction with the landmark international exhibition organized by the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, this richly illustrated volume presents more than two centuries of Plains Indian artistic achievement through extraordinary examples of beadwork, quillwork, painted hides, clothing, weapons, horse regalia, ceremonial objects, sculpture, and contemporary Native art.

Written by Gaylord Torrence, one of the foremost scholars of Plains Indian art, the book examines the creativity, innovation, and cultural traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the Great Plains. Drawing from major museum and private collections throughout North America and Europe, the exhibition and accompanying catalog brought together many of the finest examples of Plains art ever assembled, demonstrating the sophistication, beauty, and enduring vitality of these artistic traditions.

Rather than presenting the objects solely as ethnographic artifacts, Torrence emphasizes their artistic excellence and places them within the broader context of world art. Historic masterpieces are presented alongside works by contemporary Native artists, illustrating the continuity and evolution of Plains artistic expression across generations. The publication explores themes of identity, spirituality, warfare, diplomacy, trade, and cultural resilience while highlighting the extraordinary craftsmanship of Plains artists.

Featuring exceptional photography and extensive scholarship, this hardcover edition has become an essential reference for collectors, museums, scholars, and enthusiasts of Native American art. Widely regarded as one of the finest books ever published on Plains Indian art, it remains a cornerstone publication for understanding the artistic traditions of the Great Plains.

Author: Gaylord Torrence
Publisher: DelMonico Books / Prestel in association with the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Copyright: 2014
Format: Hardcover with Dust Jacket
Pages: 344
ISBN: 9783791353586
Illustrations: Hundreds of full-color illustrations throughout