Art

Visible Differences

Students will learn that an image is a complex cultural productions that are laden with multiple meanings and open to various interpretations. During the class, students will compare and contrast two images from the Peabody’s collection. One image is of a native leader and was painted by a white male artist and the other is a pencil drawing done by Jaw His Fight, a member of the Sioux tribe. The differences in how a culture depicts itself and how others depict them – and the meaning behind that – will be highlighted.

American Indian Pottery

Intricate designs, a variety of decorative techniques, and fluid, naturalistic shapes are presented to students during an informal survey of the Peabody’s collection of ancient and contemporary American Indian pottery. Highlights include our distinctive Late Woodland vessels of the Southeast and our extensive collection of southwestern pottery, including pieces by acclaimed Pueblo potter Maria Martinez.

Weft-Over Methods

Students work with the Peabody’s extensive collection of Guatemalan textiles to understand and appreciate traditional weaving techniques and the cultural implications of personal adornment.

ARTIFACTS: Indigenous Art on Its Own Terms

Students will work together to examine artifacts from the Peabody’s collections to better understand how indigenous works of art are expressions of cultural values and philosophy of life. They will better understand that western notions of art are not always applicable –and cannot or should not be imposed – on an object of another culture. They will understand that all native people in the Americas had a deep and vibrant artistic heritage prior to the arrival of Europeans.

Silent Voices

Clothing is a readily observed form of nonverbal communication that exists in all cultures. Students will work in groups and attempt to translate the silent language communicated by Guatemalan textiles in the Peabody’s collections.