POST #5 - READING - GRQ - DISCUSSION - THE ART OF INDIGENOUS AMERICANS ART HISTORY: A CENTURY OF EXHIBITIONS

NATIVE AMERICAN ART

America has a complicated history of using the achievements of others, especially when it comes to Indigenous art. Often, this art has been used to distract from current issues while promoting a view of “American achievement and culture.” For instance, during times of war, like World War II, interest in Native art increased as it was highlighted to shift attention away from the chaos in Europe and counter negative feelings about wartime countries. Artists like Marsden Hartley and John Sloan became popular during this period, reinforcing the idea that America was built on Native American soil, its own culture rich with history. 

Indigenous art also gained recognition during various feminist movements, showing the connection between cultural identity and social justice. While it’s important to celebrate Indigenous art, this appreciation should happen all the time—not just during moments of conflict. Engaging with Native art allows us to recognize the stories and perspectives it holds. This art isn’t just a tool for distraction; it’s a vibrant expression of culture, history, and resilience as well. Slowly but surely, it is coming back with recognition and is much deserved. By consistently embracing Indigenous art, we acknowledge its vital role in America’s history and culture, promoting a deeper understanding of the diverse influences that shape our society. Ultimately, the value of Indigenous art goes beyond its beauty; it reminds us of America’s rich cultural diversity and the need to continuously support Indigenous voices and their contributions.

The article explores a deepened and wide exploration of the relationships between Indigenous art and American art history, highlighting different key exhibitions in the past century from the 1920s to the 2000s. Native American art is often marginalized and separated from the rest in U.S. museums compared to other arts. This could seem quite offensive to some making it seem like they arent apart of American history almost but some might think its separated due to the impact they have made and how they have truly defined art.

The article divides Indigenous art history into three periods, exploring how Native art was celebrated for its "American" identity post World War 1 and then it regained attention during the Civil Rights era. The article states for greater recognition of Native art in mainstream American art with a focus on contemporary Native artists.

Initially, in the early 20th century, Native art was celebrated as a symbol of American originality, with significant exhibitions like the 1931 Exposition of Indian Tribal Arts. Interest spiralled in the 1950s but later revived in the 1970s with movements like Civil Rights and "Red Power," leading to prominent shows such as "Two American Painters" and "American Indian Art: Form and Tradition." 

Despite this, Native art has often been segregated in museums, with institutions like the Denver Art Museum making notable efforts to integrate contemporary works. Overall, while Native American art has gained recognition, however, it sadly still remains inconsistent.

 GRQ: 

1. Native
2. Institutions
3. Indigenous art
4. Indigenous cultures
5. Authenticity
6. Pueblo Woman
7. Museum of Modern Art
8. Multiculturalism
9. Artists like Fritz Scholder and Linda Lomahaftewa
10. Sculpture and the Native American
11.Native American art
12. Marginalization  
13. New generation of scholars