Roberts Projects has announced the upcoming exhibition, Bíikkua (The Hide Scraper), featuring Wendy Red Star’s ongoing series exploring the social and material history of bishkisché. Bishkisché refers to heirloom rawhide cases created and embellished by indigenous women across North America. The term translates to “backpack for dogs to carry meat or grain” in the Apsáalooke language. This exhibition aims to revive the cultural heritage and artistic practices of Red Star’s Apsáalooke ancestors, which have been historically referred to as parfleche in Western European scholarship during the colonial fur trade. The functional nature of these cases enabled the transportation of goods and possessions on horses throughout the Great Plains.
The Historical Significance of Bishkisché
Bishkisché holds immense historical significance, representing the practices of indigenous tribes in North America. The term itself reflects the ingenuity of indigenous communities in developing practical solutions for daily life challenges. By embracing bishkisché as a term instead of the commonly used parfleche, Red Star intends to acknowledge and restore the cultural lineage and language of her Apsáalooke ancestry.
Reviving Cultural Heritage
Red Star’s series presents an opportunity to revive and celebrate the cultural heritage of the Apsáalooke tribe. By focusing on the artistic expressions and craftsmanship of indigenous women, the exhibition highlights their role in preserving and passing down cultural traditions through generations. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of indigenous communities and their ability to adapt and sustain cultural practices in the face of colonization and ongoing challenges.
Trends in Indigenous Art
The exhibition of Red Star’s series aligns with a broader trend in the art world, which is the growing recognition and appreciation of indigenous art and its contribution to the global artistic landscape. Indigenous artists from various cultures are gaining increased visibility and recognition, challenging the established Eurocentric art canon. This trend signifies a shift towards a more inclusive and diverse art world, where artists from historically marginalized communities are rightfully acknowledged for their artistic skills and creativity.
Predictions for the Future
The future of indigenous art appears promising, with increasing opportunities for artists to showcase their work and gain international recognition. Museums and galleries are actively seeking to diversify their collections and exhibitions, acknowledging the necessity of representing diverse cultural perspectives. This will likely lead to an expansion in the market for indigenous art, creating economic opportunities for indigenous artists.
Furthermore, the use of contemporary mediums and technologies is likely to play a significant role in the future of indigenous art. Artists like Wendy Red Star are already blending traditional artistic practices with modern techniques to create unique and thought-provoking pieces. This fusion of tradition and innovation not only adds depth and dynamism to indigenous art but also appeals to a wider audience, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary aesthetics.
Recommendations for the Industry
Considering the potential future trends in the indigenous art industry, there are several recommendations for stakeholders:
- Invest in education and cultural exchange programs that promote indigenous art and artists. This will help foster understanding and appreciation for indigenous cultures, breaking down stereotypes and promoting inclusivity.
- Encourage collaborations between indigenous artists and mainstream institutions. This can lead to the integration of indigenous art into larger artistic narratives and increase its visibility among wider audiences.
- Support and promote indigenous-owned galleries and art spaces. Creating dedicated platforms for indigenous artists will not only provide them with exposure but also ensure that they retain control over their artistic representation and economic benefits.
Conclusion
The exhibition of Wendy Red Star’s series, Bíikkua (The Hide Scraper), marks an important moment in the revival and celebration of indigenous art and cultural heritage. The growing recognition of indigenous art and its contribution to the global art scene signifies a shift towards inclusivity and diversity. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to provide support and opportunities for indigenous artists to thrive and share their unique perspectives and artistic traditions with the world.
References:
- [1] Roberts Projects. “Bíikkua (The Hide Scraper): Wendy Red Star.” Roberts Projects. Accessed March 2021. https://robertsprojectsla.viewingrooms.com/viewing-room/6-biikkua-the-hide-scraper-wendy-red-star/