Uneasy relationships - Contemporary artists and anthropology

Journal/Book: J Mat Cult. 1996; 1: 6 Bonhill Street, London, England EC2A 4PU. Sage Publications Ltd. 183-210.

Abstract: The documentary, narrative or even fictional character of ethnographic photography and film has been debated for some time. However, anthropology has hardly taken notice of the visual representation of other cultures in recent contemporary art. In contrast with earlier modernist 'primitivism' these contemporary artists also appropriate anthropological methods and provide a critique of ethnographic and collecting practices. The article investigates the epistemological implications that arise from anthropological appropriations in contemporary art and ultimately argues that such art can be as legitimate in the representation of other cultures as already academically established written and visual discourses in anthropology.

Note: Review Schneider A, Univ E London, Dept Sociol, Longbridge Rd, Dagenham RM8 2AS, Essex, ENGLAND

Keyword(s): anthropology; appropriation; contemporary art; fieldwork; representation; ART

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