Aboriginal Motifs

Functions & Philosophies: 

Indigenous Control

In using Indigenous Australian art and motif, respect must be payed to the artist and to the use of the work. It is up to the creator how and what I am able to use. This is as they have creative control and the right to govern themselves. If I wish to use the art or motifes of a spesific regeion, I must ask permission of the leader of that area. In doing so, it is good to go through the government, as there is an infrastucture of control and contact set up which can direct me in the direction of the right person to talk to. 

Communication, Consultation and Consent

In using work, communication with artists must be established. Often it is up to multiple people to decide weather a body or piece of work can be used. As the communities of Indigenous Australians operate in different protocols, I must be prepared for a long process as the decision is made. Often a meeting must be held to decide weather the context in which the work will be used is appropriate. 

It is also good will to respect the wishes of Aboriginals not to represent the dead, and have respect for the divisions of culture which exist in different communities. Every community is different, which means that every call to use work will be different to the next.  

Moral Rights & Issues
If referencing Aboriginal Motifs in design, I can reference such motifs if I make original work. However from a standpoint of respect It would be good to discuss and ask an Aboriginal representative to keep a good relationship for future dealings.


References:
http://www.australiacouncil.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/32368/Visual_arts_protocol_guide.pdf