Ensure that any resources used are culturally sensitive and appropriate. If in doubt, consult with Aboriginal people.
Encourage an understanding of Aboriginal culture as a dynamic living culture which, like all cultures, adjusts to change and has a history.
Avoid reference to traditional Aboriginal culture as ‘primitive’,‘Stone Age’, or ‘simple’, as these terms are highly offensive.
Follow correct protocols when using photographs or works by an Aboriginal person who has died. Students should be aware that in some communities the mentioning of names and display of photographs of people who have died are signs of disrespect to them and their families. Permission should be sought from families to show images of the deceased.
Art Teaching Tips
Discourage students from copying or using Aboriginal signs or symbols in their own artmaking. This not only causes great offence to Aboriginal people, but also infringes copyright. Students should be encouraged to develop their own symbolic visual language when learning about the systems of symbolic meaning in Aboriginal artworks.
Integrate aspects of Aboriginal art and culture, such as the oral tradition, the performing arts, song, and dance wherever possible.
Avoid aspects of Aboriginal art containing sacred or secret or ‘inside’ information. It is inappropriate to address this area in classroom situations; most Aboriginal people would find it offensive. However, it is important that students are informed about this issue and learn to respect it. Aboriginal artists or advisors may provide some background to this issue.
Recognise how contemporary Aboriginal art can adapt Western art forms and new technologies and media, and still communicate cultural knowledge and express Aboriginality.
General Teaching Tips
Art Teaching Tips