Oorspronkelijke volkeren van Noord-Amerika 1869 - 1882

Curator: This print, entitled "Oorspronkelijke volkeren van Noord-Amerika" which translates to "Native Peoples of North America", was created sometime between 1869 and 1882 by J. Johnston. It is an engraving, presented with almost journalistic precision. Editor: It strikes me as a series of vignettes, almost like scenes frozen in time, telling a larger story, a fragmented narrative. There’s a somber quality too; despite the scenes of community, there’s a pervading sense of loss, or at least quiet reflection. Curator: The vignettes offer insights into different aspects of Indigenous life in North America during that era. You can see different clothing styles, dwelling types, and ceremonial practices. Johnston really leans into detail. Editor: It's the visual language that draws me in – the depiction of tipis against the forest. The symbolism is so layered here, isn't it? The tipi representing not only shelter, but family, community, the circle of life, spirituality deeply rooted to that ground, whereas the forest seems to be dense with unknowns... possibilities and threats perhaps? Curator: Precisely. Each image functions almost like a hieroglyph, conveying complex meanings with what might seem, at first glance, like a simple picture. The shield, the tomahawk...they are there to say something more. Editor: And the figure standing, seemingly guarding the teepee is full of quiet power. He's standing watch and seems unperturbed as he considers our point of view, almost daring you to question him. Curator: What strikes me is that an image intended to simply document winds up subtly revealing assumptions and agendas that may have informed it. The way details are chosen, the light…it’s all carefully shaped, intentionally or otherwise. Editor: Yes! By pulling all the images together on this page in this composition, a sort of dance begins; a negotiation. Our minds want to put it all together like some type of cohesive whole, some kind of explanation that ultimately isn't there. We are left with these small glimpses to weave our own experience and create our own questions. A beautiful struggle. Curator: Exactly! These glimpses invite us to connect threads. We get the opportunity to explore and ponder, not just receive. That’s what really brings this print to life for me.