Open Collections

Corbet, Yadira Rosa

University of British Columbia

Advanced wood science technologies such as computer numerical control (CNC) devices are being introduced into the artistic and cultural practice of Pacific Northwest Coast (PNWC) art. This intersection is due to the dawning of the Age of Information where automated tools and technology are reshaping the world. The questions that arise are, in what ways modern day technologies will inform PNWC artistry. The aim was to construct a preliminary understanding of this intersection, and bring forward the expertise and knowledge of artists in the field of PNWC art to inform future artists, art collectors, museums, anthropologists and so on. Through an indigenized method, “storywork” and semi-structured interviewing, PNWC artists, museum curators and gallery owners who deal primarily with PNWC art, were asked about their views, opinions and experiences, within the intersection of technologies and PNWC art (N=22). The results showed that onlookers from outside Indigenous cultures believe that art must be ‘traditional’ or ‘authentic” to the past by placing a mythical box around PNWC artists that does not allow for growth and change. Artists themselves do not view technology as something outside of their traditional knowledge. In fact, adopting available technology and tools has always been part of traditional ways of being, then and now. The use of modern technologies does not detract from perceptions of authenticity, it may change the methods, but the end is still art, culture and heritage. This work is deeply connected to decolonizing the realm of academia by legitimizing Indigenous epistemologies, and centering on Indigenous voices.

Text

2022-11-23

Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

http://hdl.handle.net/2429/83292

Forestry

University of British Columbia

UBCV

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/