Honors Projects

Abstract

Oceanic artworks are interesting in their purpose of connecting with and influencing the spiritual world. As such, Oceanic artworks are largely affected by the spiritual beliefs of the cultures producing them. Outsiders may have trouble understanding and tastefully depicting artworks from these cultures, as information about them is largely limited or misrepresented. This Honors Project aims to develop a clearer understanding of northern Melanesian artwork by investigating how the spiritual and societal beliefs of certain cultures affect the artwork they produce, with the intention of appropriately depicting them in an independent artwork. Through my research, I find that northern Melanesian artworks are commonly used to influence the spirits associated with one’s lineage, either helping them to pass on or invoking their power. The uses of these artworks stem from and reinforce cultural beliefs in the spiritual world and the individual as connected to a greater whole. These results establish a foundational knowledge of northern Melanesian artworks and cultures, which can be used to depict them in artworks that avoid cultural appropriation.

Department

School of Art

Major

Art – BFA in Digital Arts

First Advisor

Yamin Xu

First Advisor Department

School of Art

Second Advisor

Dr. Rebecca L Skinner Green

Second Advisor Department

School of Art

Third Advisor

Dr. Dena Eber

Third Advisor Department

School of Art

Publication Date

Fall 12-10-2025

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