The Importance of Modern Native American Art

Callista Wilson
Mr. Roddy
2 December 2018
The Importance of Modern Native American Art
Native Americans have experienced injustice and suppression for centuries, and their culture is still being hidden by stereotypes and prejudices. For this reason, art forms such as photography, cooking, and playwriting have become effective ways for Native Americans to express their true identities, and educate others about their history. When people learn about indigenous culture through art, they may become less drawn to describing Native Americans in ways which are inaccurate, offensive, or disrespectful. Indigenous artists intend for their work to make others empathize with their values and beliefs. When people understand the identities and viewpoints of Native Americans more fully, they may feel more drawn towards acknowledging their culture in ways that are more accurate and accepting.
Madeline Sayet, a Native American playwright, actor, and director uses her work to highlight the fact that stereotypes about Native Americans still exist prominently, and that the public often responds indifferently. Additionally, Sayet refrains from working on projects which involve underlying stereotypes or offensive terms. For example, she refused to work on a production titled Last of the Mohicans where indigenous people are referred to as “red-skins” and the characters who were uninterested in collaborating with the British had been depicted as “bloodthirsty savages.” Additionally, Cara Romero and Kali Spitzer (both professional photographers and Native American descendants) use photography as a means of educating people about what modern Native American lifestyles are like, and how the truth contradicts with stereotypes. Although people might believe that most indigenous people live away from society on reserves, many indigenous people are prominent professionals and impactful contributors to modern society. Also, many integrate their cultural identities into their daily lives in ways which stereotypes completely disregard. Hillel Echo-Hawk, a professional cook and Native American descendant, is also changing people’s views about the tendencies of indigenous people. Specifically, she creates and shares meals with the world which exemplify the Native American qualities of innovation and attentiveness to detail.

Overall, works of art hold the power to make people to feel empathy, which has allowed Native Americans to take a stance against marginalization. Modern Native American works of art are invaluable, as they have become a means of educating the world about indigenous culture, why it should be preserved, viewed properly, and respected.

Bibliography
Zalcman, Daniella. “Native Americans Are Recasting Views of Indigenous Life.” National
Geographic, National Geographic, 20 Nov. 2018, www.nationalgeographic.com/ magazine /2018/12/native-americans-recasting-views-indigenous-life/.    

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