Annual Conference of the College Art Association
(CAA), February 12-15, 2014, Chicago
The concept of “survivance” is a powerful
tool for thinking about cultural production by indigenous peoples. Proposed by
Anishinaabe cultural theorist, Gerald Vizenor, survivance emphasizes survival through
active resistance to oppressive forces. The concept thus provides a way to
counter the historically pervasive idea that indigenous peoples have been
passive survivors of colonial domination.
Within the framework of survivance,
“resistance” should not be understood as a purely negative reaction to colonial
victimization. Indigenous resistance can involve cultural negotiation and can
be a vehicle through which indigenous peoples claim their authority, autonomy,
and sovereignty.
Survivance has been productively
explored in literary theory, indigenous studies, museology, and anthropology, but
has gained less traction in art history. This panel seeks to explore the ways
in which survivance can be used to understand the production, consumption,
collection, exhibition, and circulation of visual media and objects created by indigenous
artists. Of central interest are discussions of indigenous people who have
strived to maintain their cultural traditions in the face of imperialism in its
varied forms—colonization, political oppression, cultural appropriation and
exploitation, etc. Papers are welcome that
address indigenous visual and material culture from contact through the present.
Scholars from a range of disciplines are encouraged to submit proposals, as are
practicing artists.
Philip J.
Deloria will be the discussant for this session.
Please send
abstract, recent CV, and CAA conference application to Sascha Scott (sscott04@syr.edu) by May 6, 2013.
CAA individual membership is required
of all participants. For more
information, visit:
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