The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) holds a collection on behalf of the University of British Columbia that could be seen as a significant appropriation of indigenous cultural histories.
The collection Is extensive and includes not only indigenous Canadian indigenous artefacts but those beyond its shores from the Pacific Islands, South America and to Asia.
The Museum is governed by the University’s policy on repatriation and sees its role in both research and education. Whilst the collections are accessible to the public they feel captured in glass cabinets and many drawers. All are painstakingly catalogued and it is an impressive if not overwhelming collection. Researches would certainly have a field day!
It has the feel and focus on ‘scientific’ research rather than a reflection on the interests and issues that indigenous communities around the world confront to ensure that their cultures and histories are both recognised and told by them. The MOA recognises the sensitivities surrounding the collection in their recognition of the cultural rights, values, knowledge and ideas that they have under their patronage.
The MOA in recognising this dilemma invites and sponsors contemporary indigenous artists to respond to the collection. These are contained in individual gallery spaces and pay respect to ‘the artists and the cultures from which this work comes’.
It is a fine line however that museums around the world tread in the display of indigenous artefacts that have been acquired, sometimes taken and sold, and that require either repatriation or at least recognised for the role they play in contemporary indigenous communities.
No comments:
Post a Comment