Futures

Exploring Indigenous Perspectives Through Art and Technology at the Autry Museum, (from page 20241027.)

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Summary

The exhibition “Future Imaginaries: Indigenous Art, Fashion, Technology” at the Autry Museum, featuring Rose B. Simpson’s sculpture “Ground (Witness),” explores contemporary Indigenous art’s engagement with themes of time, technology, and futurism. Organized as part of the Getty Foundation’s PST ART program, the show includes over 50 works from diverse Indigenous artists, challenging traditional notions of Native art. It is divided into three sections: “Suiting Up,” focusing on fashion and regalia; “Indigenizing Sci-Fi,” reclaiming sci-fi motifs; and “Critical Mass,” highlighting interactive technologies. The exhibition emphasizes the relationality of Indigenous fashion, the reimagining of historical narratives, and the integration of ancestral knowledge into modern contexts, ultimately presenting a vision of a resilient and adaptive future for Indigenous communities.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Indigenous Futurism Contemporary Indigenous artists explore futurism through ancestral knowledge and technology. Shifting from traditional representations of Indigenous art to a forward-thinking vision integrating technology. In ten years, Indigenous art may be recognized globally for its innovative fusion of tradition and modern technology. A desire among Indigenous communities to reclaim narratives and integrate their cultural heritage into future contexts. 5
Reclaiming Sci-Fi Indigenous artists are reinterpreting science fiction motifs within their own cultural contexts. Moving from exploitation of Indigenous motifs in mainstream media to Indigenous reappropriation and creation in sci-fi. In a decade, Indigenous narratives may dominate sci-fi, reshaping the genre and its cultural significance. The need to assert Indigenous identities and stories in popular culture against historical marginalization. 4
Relationality in Fashion Indigenous fashion embeds ancestral knowledge, emphasizing relationality and community. Transitioning from individualistic fashion to a collective identity rooted in ancestral wisdom. In ten years, Indigenous fashion may become a leading example of sustainable and culturally rich design practices. A resurgence of interest in sustainability and cultural heritage in the fashion industry. 4
Interactive Indigenous Technologies Artworks integrating technology to interact with human and non-human entities. Evolving from static art forms to interactive installations that engage visitors dynamically. In a decade, interactive Indigenous art may revolutionize visitor engagement in museums and public spaces. The increasing integration of technology in art and the desire to create immersive experiences. 5
Food Sovereignty as Technology Indigenous knowledge of food sovereignty and cultivation is framed as advanced technology. From viewing technology as mechanical to understanding it as encompassing ecological and cultural practices. In ten years, food sovereignty may be central to technological discussions, leading to more sustainable practices. A growing awareness of the importance of sustainable practices in response to climate change. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Cultural Appropriation in Art and Media Mainstream media continues to borrow and sometimes exploit Indigenous themes, which may lead to misrepresentation and loss of cultural significance. 4
Environmental and Ecological Awareness The emphasis on Indigenous knowledge of ecosystems highlights a potential neglect of ecological stewardship in modern practices, risking environmental degradation. 5
The Future of Indigenous Identity The adaptation of traditional culture through technology raises questions about the integrity and evolution of Indigenous identities for future generations. 4
Technological Impact on Ancestral Knowledge The incorporation of AI and technological elements in Indigenous art may challenge the authenticity and transmission of ancestral knowledge. 4
Food Sovereignty and Space Exploration The exploration of food technology in space raises concerns about the implications of agricultural practices and sovereignty in extraterrestrial environments. 3
Representation in Science Fiction Indigenous communities may struggle to reclaim their narratives in sci-fi, risking further appropriation and distortion of their stories and traditions. 4

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Reclaiming Indigenous Narratives Contemporary Indigenous artists are reclaiming and redefining narratives within sci-fi and mainstream culture, asserting their perspectives and traditions. 5
Interdisciplinary Approaches to Art Artists are merging ancestral knowledge with modern technology and various art forms to create innovative expressions of culture and identity. 5
Relationality in Fashion Indigenous fashion is viewed as a representation of ancestral knowledge, emphasizing the connection to heritage and community. 4
Interactive and Responsive Art Artworks are designed to engage visitors interactively, highlighting the relationship between human actions and artistic expression. 4
Futuristic Food Sovereignty Exploration of food sovereignty through Indigenous plant knowledge as a form of futuristic technology, linking past practices to future possibilities. 4
Challenging Linear Concepts of Time Artworks and exhibitions are reframing the understanding of time, suggesting a cyclical or relational approach rather than a linear one. 5
Integration of AI in Art The use of AI in art installations to create responsive experiences that reflect Indigenous languages and cultures. 4

Technologies

description relevancy src
An interactive sculpture that uses AI to respond to visitor movements, triggering audio in the Lakȟóta language. 5 bcb3358ea987c50fb056866ca37eef83
Exploration of food sovereignty and cultivation of plants, including successful growing of radishes in outer space. 4 bcb3358ea987c50fb056866ca37eef83
Using reflective materials and traditional designs to create contemporary wearable art, blending culture with modern technology. 4 bcb3358ea987c50fb056866ca37eef83
Fashion that embodies ancestral knowledge and connects past, present, and future through design and performance. 4 bcb3358ea987c50fb056866ca37eef83
A holistic view of technology that emphasizes awareness of ecological systems and their generational knowledge. 5 bcb3358ea987c50fb056866ca37eef83

Issues

name description relevancy
Reclaiming Indigenous Narratives in Sci-Fi Indigenous artists are reclaiming sci-fi motifs and challenging cultural appropriation within mainstream science fiction. 4
Integration of Traditional Knowledge and Modern Technology The blending of ancestral knowledge with contemporary technology highlights evolving practices in Indigenous art and life. 5
Food Sovereignty and Space Agriculture The exploration of food sovereignty through Indigenous plant knowledge and its adaptation for space cultivation. 4
Time as a Non-linear Concept in Indigenous Culture The Indigenous perspective on time challenges linear narratives, suggesting a more relational understanding of history and future. 5
Ecological Awareness in Indigenous Knowledge Systems Indigenous knowledge systems emphasize a holistic understanding of ecosystems and human relationships with nature. 5
Impact of Art in Social and Political Discourse Art is being used as a medium to address and challenge issues of colonialism and cultural survival. 4
Futurism in Indigenous Art Indigenous artists are exploring futurism in their works, envisioning alternative futures influenced by their cultural heritage. 4