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Vancouver and native art: traditional modernity | Buy

The visual identity of the Vancouver Olympics is all about native art, from the colourful logo based on an inukshuk (or more technically an inunnguaq due to its humanlike form) to the mascots and medal designs (shown) that reflect various facets of First Nation culture. Without pretending to understand the finer points of native history, we've always loved the clean, iconic look of Inuit and Haida art in particular. Something about the smooth simple lines and basic colours seems utterly contemporary, much like the African traditional art that was so effectively co-opted by Brancusi and his modernist ilk. It's not intimidating nor expensive to begin collecting, either; find a small gallery and start with what you like. We recommend Inuit Art Zone and Spirits of the West Coast.
17.feb.2010 culture design
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