There are traditional arts which include things like totem poles, button blankets, basketry and beadworkings. All of these forms of traditional art have been made by native artists from a long time ago and passed on to each generations. Some artists today still make these traditional art forms. First Nations art also includes ceremonial or religious arts. Objects made by these artists would be used only during religious ceremonies.
Examples are things like masks and written scrolls made out of birch bark.
Utilitarian art refers to art forms made for everyday life. Artists making utilitarian objects might produce things like ceramic pots or beaded clothing. The McMichael has examples of each of these art forms in its collection but mostly it focuses on contemporary First Nations art. Contemporary art means art that is produced by artists who are living and working today. In particular, there is one group of First Nations artists called the Woodland School.