Understanding Northwest Coast Art introduces the reader to the artworks produced by the Indigenous cultures of the Northwest Coast, featuring a dictionary-style reference guide to the symbols, crests and beings depicted in works of art; brief descriptions of design conventions, design elements and the different art styles of Northwest Coast cultural groups; an explanation of the interconnections between art, myth and ceremony in the life of the culture; and 65 reproductions of contemporary artworks, archival photos and design elements to aid identification of subjects and themes.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 141-143).