Appropriation

Definition

Appropriation refers to the act of taking or using elements from one culture by members of another culture, often without permission or understanding. In the context of contemporary Native American visual arts, appropriation raises critical issues about cultural identity, representation, and power dynamics, particularly when non-Native artists use Native imagery or symbols without acknowledging their cultural significance or origins.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Contemporary Native American artists often confront issues of appropriation by emphasizing the importance of authenticity and cultural heritage in their work.
2. Some non-Native artists have faced backlash for using Native symbols in their art, which can lead to discussions about respect and ownership of cultural narratives.
3. Appropriation can result in the commodification of Native culture, where sacred symbols are turned into commercial products devoid of their original meaning.
4. Legal protections for Native artists can be complicated by appropriation, as laws around intellectual property may not adequately address cultural contexts.
5. Many Native artists advocate for awareness around appropriation, aiming to educate the public on the significance and meanings behind their cultural expressions.

Review Questions

• How does appropriation impact the way Native American artists create and share their work in contemporary visual arts?
  • Appropriation significantly impacts Native American artists as they navigate a complex landscape where their cultural symbols can be misused or misunderstood by outsiders. This situation forces these artists to assert their identities and highlight the importance of authenticity in their work. Many respond to appropriation by creating art that educates audiences about the true meanings behind their cultural expressions, thereby reclaiming their narratives.
• Discuss the differences between appropriation and cultural exchange in the context of Native American visual arts.
  • Appropriation involves one culture taking elements from another without permission or understanding, often leading to disrespect and a loss of meaning. In contrast, cultural exchange is characterized by mutual respect and understanding, where both cultures benefit from shared experiences. In Native American visual arts, distinguishing between these two concepts is crucial because while some collaborations may honor traditions, others may exploit them for profit or aesthetic purposes.
• Evaluate the role of representation in addressing issues of appropriation within contemporary Native American visual arts.
  • Representation plays a pivotal role in how appropriation is addressed in contemporary Native American visual arts. When Native artists represent their own stories and symbols authentically, they challenge stereotypes and counteract misrepresentations perpetuated by outsiders. This active representation allows Native voices to reclaim control over their narratives, raising awareness about appropriation's implications while fostering deeper understanding among audiences about the richness and significance of Native cultures.

Related terms

Cultural Misappropriation: A specific type of appropriation where members of a dominant culture exploit the cultural elements of a marginalized group, often leading to a loss of meaning and disrespect for the original culture.

Cultural Exchange: A mutual sharing of cultural elements between different groups that typically involves respect, understanding, and permission, unlike appropriation.

Representation: The way in which cultures, people, or ideas are depicted in various forms of media and art, which can influence public perception and understanding.