Effects of European Exploration on Native American and African Art
The Effects of European Contact and Colonialism
Discussion Board Statement: These discussions are meant for you to jot down your thoughts and analyses of the works of the week. In art, everything is evaluated by your perspective. There is no right or wrong answer to be graded against; instead, you will be graded on how you defend your analysis of the art pieces and the use of the resources (when appropriate).
Using one example of Native American art and one example of African art to support your ideas, explore the effects that European contact and colonialism had on these cultures and their artistic output. Consider this from as many angles as possible.
How did European exploration impact the native population and influence the kind of art they were creating?
What kind of different cultural developments might have occurred without European contact?
How do these issues continue to reverberate well into the present day?
Write as much as you can, use specific examples of art and architecture to support your position, and justify your stance on the impact of European contact and colonialism has on art.
Remember to maintain an open-minded and respectful position when engaging with your classmates.
Thesis Statement: European contact and colonialism had profound effects on Native American and African cultures, particularly in terms of their artistic output. Through the analysis of specific examples of art and architecture, it becomes evident that European exploration influenced these cultures by introducing new materials, techniques, and subject matters. However, it also resulted in cultural appropriation, exploitation, and erasure. Without European contact, Native American and African cultures may have developed distinct artistic expressions that were not influenced by European aesthetics. These issues continue to reverberate in the present day through ongoing cultural appropriation, preservation efforts, and the decolonization of art.
Effects of European Exploration on Native American and African Art:
Introduction of New Materials: European contact brought new materials such as pigments, canvas, and metals that were incorporated into Native American and African art. For example:
Native American: The introduction of glass beads by Europeans led to the development of intricate beadwork in Native American regalia and accessories.
African: The arrival of European traders brought glass trade beads that influenced the intricate beadwork in African jewelry and clothing.
Influence on Techniques and Styles: European exploration influenced the techniques and styles employed in Native American and African art. Examples include:
Native American: The adoption of European metalworking techniques resulted in the creation of silver jewelry by Native American tribes such as the Navajo.
African: The colonial presence introduced Western painting techniques to African artists, leading to the emergence of new styles like the Nsukka School in Nigeria.
Appropriation and Exploitation: often led to cultural appropriation and exploitation of Native American and African art European collectors, scholars, and museums acquired these without proper understanding or respect for their cultural. Examples include:
Native American: Sacred items such as masks or of spiritual significance were often removed from their original context and displayed as curiosities or commodities in European collections.
African: Traditional African masks and sculptures were collected by Europeans, displayed in museums, and transformed into mere aesthetic objects, devoid of their original cultural and ritual meanings.
Cultural Developments Without European Contact: Without European contact, Native American and African cultures might have developed diverse artistic expressions that were not influenced by European aesthetics. These developments may have included:
Native American: The preservation of traditional forms of pottery-making techniques, basket-weaving styles, or textile designs that were not altered or adapted to appeal to European tastes.
African: The continuation of traditional sculptural forms, mask-making techniques, or mural paintings that maintained their authenticity without incorporating Western influences.
Continued Repercussions in the Present Day: The effects of European contact and colonialism on Native American and African art reverberate well into the present day through various factors:
Cultural Appropriation: The appropriation of Native American headdresses, symbols, or designs by non-indigenous individuals for fashion or entertainment purposes perpetuates stereotypes and disrespects the cultural significance of these items.
Preservation Efforts: Efforts to preserve and recover lost or stolen artworks continue as indigenous communities and African nations seek repatriation of their cultural heritage from museums and private collections around the world.
Decolonization of Art: There is an ongoing movement to decolonize art institutions, challenging Eurocentric perspectives and promoting the inclusion of diverse voices and narratives in the art world.
In conclusion, European contact and colonialism had both positive and negative impacts on Native American and African art. While it introduced new materials and techniques, it also resulted in cultural appropriation, exploitation, and erasure. Without European influence, these cultures may have developed unique artistic expressions untainted by Western aesthetics. These issues continue to be relevant today through cultural appropriation, preservation efforts, and the push for decolonization in the art world.