Wooden paddles can be found as both functional and decorative objects within Northwest Coast Indigenous culture. On the Northwest Coast, the wooden paddles used to propel canoes are usually created from red or yellow cedar. Within some Nations and in certain ceremonial contexts, paddles can be used as flags and signals in some dances and ceremonial proceedings. Paddles created for the art market will often have carving and colour added to them, while functional paddles are either natural, or have some carving on their handles.
