Aboriginal Motifs

Functions and Philosophies

- Respect:

The rights of Indigenous people to own and control their heritage, including Indigenous images, designs, stories and other cultural expressions, should be respected.

Public art – acknowledging land

It is common practice for Indigenous artists to seek approval from the Indigenous community for public art-based projects in any particular ‘country’ within Australia.

-Communication, consultation and consent

Interpreters and translators

Indigenous artists in remote communities may require interpreters. Ask the artist if they require an interpreter.

Sensitivity of content

Sensitive content, such as secret and sacred material or gender-based works, may require special communication procedures that should be ascertained first.

Gender

When engaging in consultation with a community be aware there may be a gender division of responsibilities and cultural knowledge.

Photography of Indigenous people

Ask an artist’s permission to photograph them at events, and to use their image, especially for wide promotions and on the internet.

Collaborating with Indigenous artists

It is important that communication and consultation with Indigenous artists and their communities takes place in the initial development phase of the project. Consent should be obtained before going ahead.

It is also important to discuss copyright ownership at the outset where more than one artist or a community is involved.

Moral Rights and Issues

-Attribute the cultural source of an image or story that I intent to use on my artwork. 

For example, an image originating from a particular language group should be attributed 

in each and every publication illustrating the artwork.

- Ask the artist permission to reproduce his or her work and mention the artist name

- The destruction or mutilation of, or material alteration to, the work that causes harm to the artist’s reputation.

- Exhibition of the work in public in a manner or place that causes harm to the artist’s reputation.

Sources:

http://www.australiacouncil.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/32368/Visual_arts_protocol_guide.pdf