The Art of Anthropology

Walking through a gallery of paintings, sculptures, and murals, we usually only notice the physical designs, colors, and shapes of the art. What if there were ways to understand the mysteries behind the people, places, and ideas expressed in art and the stories the artists wanted to tell? Anthropologists, who study humans and their cultures, do just that. Exploring the connection between art and anthropology provides fascinating insights into how art reflects and even critiques many cultural trends across the world. 

Historically, many anthropologists in the late 19th century up to the mid-20th century focus on the art of non-Western cultures but view these pieces through a westernized lens. Early anthropological studies of art tend to emphasize the “exotic” aspects of these non-Western artworks, sometimes overlooking their true, profound cultural significance. However, starting in the 1960s and gaining pace in the 1980s, anthropologists began to collaborate closely with many rural communities, appreciating their art in context and recognizing that every piece carries the weight of cultural heritage as well as deep social meaning. This change allowed for a more authentic understanding of a culture when looking at trends and artistic traditions. An example of this shift in understanding is demonstrated by anthropologist Dr. Susan Sontag, who studies textile transitions of the Navajo Nation. In her research, she collaborated directly with the indigenous weavers, learning about their culture and the significance behind their weaving techniques and patterns. Rather than viewing these textiles as objects from artists, she instead explored their role in community identity. For example, the designs often reflect connections to history, family, and spiritual belief, showing that each thread is a part of a story, woven together to create the fabric of Navajo culture. 

Anthropologists play an important role in understanding the cultural contexts of art. They participate in fieldworking, whereby they immerse themselves in communities to gather insights about how exactly art functions within a specific cultural framework. By interviewing and observing artistic practices, anthropologists can uncover stories behind art and the true meaning that artists wish to convey to their audience. Furthermore, anthropologists often collaborate with artists and communities to create exhibitions that authentically represent a diverse set of cultural arts forms amidst the immense art world. 

Ethnography is a subfield of anthropology and is the scientific study of individual cultures, including their political landscapes. Anthropologists use art to understand a culture's social politics because art plays a significant role in political movements, acting as a powerful form of nonviolent resistance. For example, murals in urban areas can not only serve as beautiful decoration but also highlight many social injustices and commemorate resilience through their bold, eye-catching designs. Studying the content of this mural, the public reception, and the painter, for instance, can point to the social dynamics at play in this society.  

One of the most captivating aspects of art is its ability to convey ideas through symbolism. For instance, indigenous art serves as a means of cultural preservation and resistance, keeping transitions alive in the face of many modern challenges. One outstanding example of indigenous art that showcases themes of resistance is “The Four Directions.” This was a mural created by an artist named Judy Baca in 1976 in Los Angeles and represents the interconnectedness of Native American cultures as well as their struggles against oppression. This mural includes many symbols such as the four cardinal directions where, “East” represents the beginning of a new day, “South” represents warmth, “West” represents the end of life, and “North” represents cold hardships. This is significant in many indigenous cultures as it symbolizes a connection to the earth. The mural also showcases historical events that reflect Native American fight for recognition. Studying symbols in art is a  powerful way to analyze social or political issues that may be going unnoticed due to their quiet, hidden meaning.  

 

Several anthropological theories can deepen anthropologists’ understanding of art. Structuralism is a method of interpretation and analysis of aspects of human cognition, behavior, culture, and experience that focuses on relationships of contrast between elements in a conceptual system that reflect patterns underlying a superficial diversity. Structuralism seeks to identify patterns within various art pieces from one culture , helping ethnographers uncover the underlying norms in that community. Symbolic anthropology treats art not as art but rather a “text” that is read and scanned for patterns, almost like a code, while critical anthropology examines how art reflects and influences power dynamics in society. 

Art truly serves as a tool to understand cultural shifts and societal changes. As globalization leads to a blending of styles and influences across cultures,  there are many opportunities to investigate how art is a mirror for an increasingly interconnected world. The next time you encounter a piece of art, take a second to really consider not only its aesthetic beauty but the stories it tells about those who made it.