Arts, Architecture, and Native Creativity

Abstract

The quotation at the start of this chapter is a wonderfully optimistic view of the possibilities art holds for intercultural communication, and in this chapter I hope to show that it is at least to some extent justi­fied. We have already seen in chapter 1 how displays of contemporary art are used in museums to demonstrate the continuing existence of the peoples whose ancient work is on show. In chapter 2 we discussed the ways travelers to different parts of the world seek examples of per­forming art to watch, and material objects to buy and bring back with them as souvenirs of their visit, thus depositing some of their external funds in the local economy. We have also seen how works of art are used as teaching aids, both for children to learn of their own cultural background, and for people of all ages to learn about each other. The quotation was taken from a brochure of Desart, the Association of Central Australian Aboriginal Art and Craft Centres, which lists no fewer than 31 centers in that so-called desert region of Australia, all Aboriginally owned and governed. Desart also helps the Aboriginal artists working at these centers to market and sell their work.

Our art is like a bridge between non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal people, making them aware of our culture and stories.

Inawinytji Williams, Desart Committee, Australia