First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Studies · Grade 9 · Identities and Cultures · 1.º Período

Cultural Expressions and Art

Examining traditional and contemporary Indigenous art forms as expressions of identity and resistance.

TL;DR:Indigenous art is a powerful medium for storytelling, political resistance, and cultural continuity. This topic moves beyond the 'traditional' to examine how contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists use diverse media, from hip-hop and film to beadwork and painting, to challenge stereotypes and assert their presence. Students will learn to distinguish between cultural appreciation, which involves deep learning and respect, and appropriation, which involves the unauthorized use of cultural motifs.

• Ontario Curriculum Expectations
• NAC1O A3.1
• NAC1O A3.3

About This Topic

Indigenous art is a powerful medium for storytelling, political resistance, and cultural continuity. This topic moves beyond the 'traditional' to examine how contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists use diverse media, from hip-hop and film to beadwork and painting, to challenge stereotypes and assert their presence. Students will learn to distinguish between cultural appreciation, which involves deep learning and respect, and appropriation, which involves the unauthorized use of cultural motifs.

By analyzing the work of artists like Kent Monkman, Christi Belcourt, or Kenojuak Ashevak, students explore how art serves as a record of history and a vision for the future. This aligns with Ontario's NAC1O expectations regarding the role of cultural expressions in shaping identity. This topic is most effective when students engage in a gallery walk, allowing them to observe, critique, and discuss the layers of meaning in various artworks through peer-to-peer dialogue.

Key Questions

1. How do Indigenous artists use their work to express identity?
2. What is the difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation?
3. How does contemporary art reflect historical truths?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Indigenous art is only 'authentic' if it looks traditional or old.

What to Teach Instead

Indigenous culture is living and evolving. Contemporary art using modern technology or styles is just as authentic as historical pieces. A gallery walk featuring diverse media helps students broaden their definition of Indigenous expression.

Common Misconception

Using Indigenous designs in fashion is a good way to show support.

What to Teach Instead

Without permission or partnership, this is often appropriation. Structured role plays about the ethics of the fashion industry help students understand the difference between honoring a culture and exploiting its symbols for profit.

Active Learning Ideas

Gallery Walk

Art as Resistance

Display images or play clips of contemporary Indigenous art around the room. Students move in small groups with 'observation journals,' noting how each piece addresses a historical or social issue. They leave 'sticky note' questions for other groups to consider, fostering a silent but active dialogue.

45 min·Small Groups

Role Play

The Curator's Choice

Students act as museum curators deciding whether to include a specific item in an exhibit. They must argue whether the item represents authentic cultural expression or problematic appropriation, using a set of ethical guidelines provided in class to justify their decision.

40 min·Small Groups

Think-Pair-Share

Symbolism in Beadwork

Students examine a photo of Métis floral beadwork. They individually identify patterns that might represent specific plants or stories, then pair up to discuss how these 'flower beadwork people' used art to maintain their identity during times of displacement.

20 min·Pairs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between appreciation and appropriation?

Appreciation involves learning about the culture, supporting Indigenous artists directly, and understanding the context of the symbols used. Appropriation involves taking elements of a culture (like a headdress or sacred pattern) without permission, often for profit or fashion, which can be deeply offensive and harmful. Students learn this best through case studies of real-world examples.

How does Indigenous art reflect the history of residential schools?

Many artists use their work to process intergenerational trauma and tell the truths that were hidden for decades. For example, some use the image of the orange shirt or specific school artifacts to provoke conversation about the legacy of the system. This makes art a vital tool for reconciliation and public education.

Who are some influential contemporary Indigenous artists in Canada?

Students should be introduced to a range of artists such as Christi Belcourt (Métis painter), Jeremy Dutcher (Wolastoqiyik musician), and Alanis Obomsawin (Abenaki filmmaker). Highlighting diverse voices across different provinces and nations helps students see the breadth of Indigenous excellence.

How can active learning help students understand cultural expressions?

Active learning encourages students to be critics and thinkers rather than passive observers. By participating in gallery walks or mock curatorial boards, students must apply their knowledge of ethics and history to evaluate art. This process helps them internalize the nuance required to navigate topics like appropriation and cultural identity respectfully.