Denilson Baniwa on Indigenous Art, Decoloniality, and the 2019 PIPA Online Prize
Denilson Baniwa, who received the PIPA Online Prize in 2019, reflects on his position as an Indigenous artist in Brazil. Hailing from a Baniwa community in Rio Negro, Amazonas, he speaks on themes of decoloniality and cultural appropriation, asserting that art is essential for Indigenous peoples' existence and resistance. He points out that many Indigenous artists utilize non-Indigenous languages to connect with broader audiences, referencing a conference as an illustration. Baniwa critiques the discourse surrounding decolonization, noting its initial rejection by European male scholars after being introduced by a Latin American woman. He co-founded Rádio Yandê in 2013 and made his art debut in 2015 with "DjaGuata Porã." His PIPA award highlighted the backing of his community, and he emphasizes the importance of ethically representing Baniwa culture in his work.
Key facts
- Denilson Baniwa won the Prêmio Pipa Online in 2019.
- He is an Indigenous artist from the Baniwa people in Rio Negro, Amazonas.
- Baniwa argues Indigenous art does not separate art from life or resistance.
- He uses non-Indigenous languages strategically to reach wider audiences.
- He critiques the decolonization discourse for being co-opted by European male academics.
- Baniwa co-founded Rádio Yandê, Brazil's first Indigenous radio station, in 2013.
- His artistic career began after an invitation to work on the "DjaGuata Porã" exhibition at MAR in 2015/2016.
- The PIPA prize revealed his work's reach and support within his Indigenous community.
Entities
Artists
- Denilson Baniwa
- Clarissa Diniz
- José Ribamar Bessa
- Pablo Lafuente
- Sandra Benites
- Jaider Esbell
- Arissana Pataxó
- Ibã Huni Kuin
Institutions
- Prêmio Pipa
- ARTE!BRASILEIROS
- Rádio Yandê
- Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR)
Locations
- Rio Negro
- Amazonas
- Brazil
- Salvador
- Bahia