Art and Craft

             The Ainu crafted their tools from wood and other organic materials. From an early age, men honed their skills in woodcarving. They meticulously carved sacred inaw from willow branches, fashioned intricate libation sticks, and etched designs onto wooden plates. Notably, the Ainu rarely crafted depictions of living beings, with a notable exception being the sapanupe, a male crown adorned with animal carvings that symbolized the divine essence of the gods.

             Women traditionally held the role of weavers. Elders, such as mothers and grandmothers, were responsible for clothing their families. The primary fabric was attush, derived from soft elm bark, although cotton became popular in later years. Everyday attire was simple, but ceremonial robes bore intricate appliqués and embroidery, showcasing meticulous needlework—a source of pride for the wearer and their family. Men's robes were often more embellished than women's.

             In contemporary times, the Ainu community has leveraged ancestral craftsmanship for newer markets. Carved Ainu bears became sought-after souvenirs in the early 1900s. While popular, these carvings sometimes conflicted with traditional Ainu beliefs. Post World War II, during the US occupation, some Ainu artists began carving totem poles, mirroring those of the American Northwest coastal tribes. They infused these poles with Ainu symbols, creating a novel art form.