Arnaktauyok's artwork depicts the harmonious relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the natural world through muted colors, simple shapes, and balanced composition.
Reference: Image of the artwork "Untitled" by Germaine Arnaktauyok
Relationship between Indigenous Peoples to the natural world and or Visual
Indigenous Peoples have a deep and complex relationship with the natural world. They see themselves as part of nature, not separate from it. This relationship is reflected in their art, which often features animals, plants, and other natural elements.
In Arnaktauyok's "Untitled," the artist depicts a group of humans and animals interacting with each other in a harmonious way. The humans are shown sitting and standing alongside the animals, suggesting a sense of equality and respect. The animals are also shown in a variety of poses, suggesting that they are active and engaged in the world around them.
The artwork also features a number of natural elements, such as trees, mountains, and water. These elements help to create a sense of place and belonging. The artwork suggests that Indigenous Peoples are connected to the natural world on a deep and spiritual level.
How the artist expressed their relationship to the animals / Visual Culture in artwork using shapes, colours, composition, patterns and texture
Arnaktauyok uses a variety of artistic techniques to express her relationship to animals and the natural world.
- Shapes: The shapes in Arnaktauyok's work are simple and organic, reflecting the shapes of animals and plants. The humans and animals in "Untitled" are depicted with rounded edges and soft curves. This suggests that the artist sees them as part of the natural world, rather than separate from it.
- Colors: The colors in Arnaktauyok's work are muted and earthy, reflecting the colors of the Arctic landscape. The use of muted colors also helps to create a sense of harmony and unity in the artwork.
- Composition: The composition of Arnaktauyok's work is often symmetrical and balanced. This suggests that the artist sees the world in terms of balance and harmony. In "Untitled," the humans and animals are arranged in a circle, which is a symbol of unity and community.
- Patterns: Arnaktauyok often uses patterns in her work, such as the stripes on the animals' coats and the zigzags on the humans' clothing. These patterns add visual interest and texture to the artwork.
- Texture: The texture of Arnaktauyok's work is often rough and uneven, reflecting the texture of animal fur and the roughness of the Arctic landscape. This use of texture helps to create a sense of realism and immediacy in the artwork.
Reflection on relationship to Visual Culture / natural world in your chosen artwork
Arnaktauyok's "Untitled" is a beautiful and moving piece of artwork that expresses the deep and complex relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the natural world. The artist's use of shapes, colors, composition, patterns, and texture creates a sense of harmony and unity between humans and animals. The artwork is a reminder of the importance of respecting and protecting the natural world.
The artwork also challenges traditional Western views of nature as something to be conquered and controlled. Instead, Arnaktauyok presents a vision of nature as a place where humans and animals can coexist in harmony. This vision is particularly relevant in today's world, where we are facing a number of environmental challenges.
Arnaktauyok's artwork is a reminder that we are all part of the natural world and that we have a responsibility to protect it.