Cultures for Sale: Perspectives on Colonialism and Self-Determination and the Relationship to Authenticity and Tourism

Abstract

This article explores two cultural groups' histories and relationships with the business of tourism, including the development of self-determined organizations or projects and the objects that are produced for tourist consumption. This ethnographic portraiture study illustrates historical, political, and cultural issues from artists and organizers who are actively involved as artists and/or organizers for self-determined arts organizations and education projects. The results of the study indicate a conflict between people from the cultural groups and people who are not cultural members who are in power positions. Often decisions regarding what objects are made or labeled as authentic cultural forms are made by those not of the culture. A concern is that these objects are viewed by the consumer as representing people and places with little to no context or critical examination. The two portraits explore realities of colonialism and self-determination and the relationship to authenticity and tourism.