Final answer:
The 'traditional style' of 20th century Native American painting refers to the fusion of Indigenous and Western art traditions in the United States and Canada. Artists like Oscar Howe and groups of Canadian Native artists sought to retain cultural authenticity and promote new artistic recognition in a Westernized world.
Step-by-step explanation:
Two of the three schools that contributed significantly to the 'traditional style' of 20th century Native American painting are likely the Indigenous art forms developed in the United States and Canada which saw the merging of Indigenous and Western styles. Influences can be seen in the artwork of Native American artists who, despite being exposed to Western art traditions, often created works that were infused with their own cultural aesthetics and meanings. Notable artists such as Oscar Howe and Alex Janvier did not consider themselves outside of 'traditional arts,' instead working to bring an authentic representation of their culture into their art despite Western influence.
In the United States, Native children were assimilated into white culture through placement in boarding schools which nearly eradicated their native languages, dresses, and names. This had a direct impact on the art produced, as the cultural connections and meanings of the art forms were altered or lost. Nonetheless, modern Native American artists continue to intertwine traditional materials and techniques with contemporary styles, challenging the outdated labeling of their art as primitive or ethnographic.
In Canada, artists worked collectively to advance Native Peoples art within the Western art world, seeking to confer modern artistic value to their indigenous art traditions. They developed funds, marketing strategies, and education programs to support the growth of their artistic community, allowing Indigenous art to gain greater recognition.