Intercultural crossings in times of covid-19

the mask as an adornment of indigenous survival

Abstract

The use of fabric masks is a recommendation from the World Health Organization as part of the strategies to prevent the transmission of covid-19. Its production and sale have been an economic incentive for individual entrepreneurs and large brands. The new hygiene procedures for the use of personal protective equipment that we are experiencing in the context of a pandemic, may form new habits and shape cultures. This paper presents a study based on the analysis of a photograph of masks produced with their own graphics by the Association of Indigenous Women Sateré Mawé (AMISM). The photograph is by Samela Marteninghi and dated 2020. The method used for image analysis is the one proposed by historian Heloísa Capel. Based on the visual aspects of the photograph, the historical marginalization of indigenous peoples; the use of masks as an item of health protection and also and cultural interchanges, and the importance of graphics as an expression of identity belonging are discussed. Themes related to Brazilian indigenous clothing is still rare in academic-scientific studies. The reflection of a Eurocentric and colonialist perspective can be seen in the formation of clothing collections in museums and in the curriculum of training courses in the area in Brazil. This education, together with the culture in which we are inserted, affects the way we analyze the images and live out our visual experiences.