Voice of Authority: Native American Art and Cultural Hegemony in the Art Museum

Loosening the grip on the voice of authority in the art museum, encompasses much more than transitioning to greater inclusivity alone. Exploring why the art museum and Native American art are seemingly at odds, several issues are identified as contributors to the slow progression of Native American works into mainstream art by the conventions present in non-native art institutions. How art museums respond to objections directed at their Native American art exhibitions is the focal point that conveys the cultural hegemony that exists in non-native art museums and the ethos created under their individual missions. It is that ethos which insulates how they operate and hinders their ability to broaden their understanding of ethnic cultures. From a vantage point between the art museum and Native American cultures, this analysis posits that research conducted through conventional channels by the non-native curator has become outdated when working with indigenous art and that diversity requires admission that the creator cultures are the true voice of authority.