Final answer:
Indigenous art has transitioned from traditional expressions to incorporating modern industrial technologies and styles while maintaining a connection to cultural heritage. Recognizing the evolving nature of Native American art, contemporary artists and museums are challenging historical stereotypes, integrating traditional values with modern artistic mediums, and advocating for a broader appreciation of Indigenous contributions to the art world.
Step-by-step explanation:
Art in Traditional/Tribal Cultures vs Modern Industrial Cultures
Indigenous art has evolved over time, transitioning from traditional material culture to a mode of expression that intertwines both ancestral philosophies and modern industrial influences. Initially categorized as craft, the works of Native American artists, including clothing, baskets, and pottery—often crafted by women and anonymous—were significant within their own cultural contexts. Yet, with the advent of modernity and the influence of contemporary art movements, Indigenous artists have begun to experiment with new materials, creating art that not only pays homage to their cultural heritage but also speaks to a broader and shared humanity.
Post-World War II saw a shift in Indigenous artistry, as newfound freedoms encouraged artists to explore abstraction and emotional expression. Although the international community often ranks Indigenous Peoples below the general population in terms of socio-economic status and opportunities, their contributions to art continue to strive for visibility and acknowledgment. Museums have gradually begun to re-prioritize Native art, moving away from labels like "primitive" or "ethnographic," acknowledging that the exclusion of Indigenous art presents an incomplete picture of contemporary art.
Today, Native artists may employ both traditional and contemporary techniques. With increased awareness and education, there is a resurgence of Indigenous artistic traditions. Artists impart their identity and history onto their modern styles, while some institutions have started recognizing the sacred significance of Native American artworks and begun removing such items from display.
Indigenous Philosophy and Worldviews play a crucial role in Native art. The connection between Native peoples and the natural world is an enduring theme that pervades artistic expression. This philosophy extends to the spiritual domain, with animals and the environment being regarded with animism and considered integral to the identity and practices of Native communities. The revival of these philosophies in art is not only an artistic endeavor but is also intertwined with the education and preservation of language and cultural customs.