Research Subject Projects
1: Research the NMAI in both Washington and New York. Discuss the origins of this institute, its importance to Native artists and how this institute is viewed in American culture. You will need to discuss the importance of the architecture of the structure as well.
2: Select two different potters. Discuss their styles and what makes their work different. You are not limited to the Southwest and may want to investigate pottery in the Midwest. You will need to address contemporary and traditional styles as well as the influence of gender upon this tradition.
3: Review the work of Ernie Paniccioli. He is a very powerful Native artist and one that has many avenues to investigate for this project. You will want to discuss the "legacy" of his work. How is he viewed in the American art world? What does Mr. Paniccioli have to say about his own work? What styles does he work within and why/why not has he selected this/these styles? His strong web presence should allow for multiple avenues of research.
4: Select, at least, two different Native theatre performing ensembles. Discuss their history, legacy and bodies of work that they have produced. To whom to do these ensembles normally perform? How are they received by the American public? Do they have international attention? Why/why not? Who are, if any, major actors to come from these ensembles? You may want to make contact with the directors/producers/performers from these different ensembles if possible.
5: Review two (2) works of Native literature written by a Native and non-Native author. What views of Native history, culture, art are expressed within these texts? Are the works accurate or do they contain inaccuracies? Where, how and why? How have these works been received by the Native and non-Native communities? You are not limited to a genre (mystery/thriller, comedy, biography, autobiography, poetry) but the works do have to be composed by a Native and non-Native author. You will want to look at both traditional and contemporary works of literature before you make a final decision on a text.
6: Compare/contrast two films: one by a Native film maker/producer and the other about Native culture from a non-Native film maker/producer. How do these films address Native culture? How did they balance their subject matter (documentary, fiction, action) along with a perspective of Native culture? What are the positive/negative views of Native culture within the films? What was/is the growth and distribution of the films? Was/is their international attention to these films?
7: Select a local Native cultural center or museum. Review this establishment and how it offers a location to feature Native artists. What kinds of art are historically exhibited within this location? How many showings are presented within a typical year at this location? Is the Director/Curator Native or non-Native? Does this make a difference? How has the general public come to understand this establishment?
8: Develop an overview of modern urban Native art (graffiti, skateboard/deck art, t-shirts/designs, etc). Is there a general location where these styles are viewed? Are there specific tribes that engage in these art forms? How do these styles relate to both an elder and younger Native population? To whom are these materials marketed? Is there a large global/non-Native venue open to these artistic forms? What marketing strategies have been used to sell these products?