The following discussion outlines visual representation of indigenous communities in Western
society today. It is focusing on Jimmy Nelson’s photographic project Before They Pass Away,
a collection of photographic material from indigenous communities. While analyzing the project, intentions and methods of western artists that work among indigenous people are put under
question. The connection between visual art and field work among marginalized communities
and the West is important in terms of learning, accepting and coexisting. When representation
of non-Western communities becomes too generic and approach to artworks is not critical, it
can cause more harm than good to their social and political status. Placing indigenous peoples
to the past, time before the contact with the West supports the silence and ignorance regarding
problems they are facing, mostly related to occupation of their space and exhaustion of natural
resources that are playing vital role in their existence. The discussion is outlining the importance
of collaboration with communities at all times and stages of the project, including presentation
of final results.
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