Appreciation vs Appropriation
Cultural Appreciation vs. Appropriation in Indigenous Art
If you’ve found your way to North of Fifty, it’s probably because Indigenous art speaks to you. Everything on this site is created for everyone to enjoy with respect, admiration, and curiosity. When you purchase from an Indigenous-owned business, you’re doing more than shopping; you’re supporting artists and showing appreciation for their culture.
Understanding Cultural Appreciation
Cultural appreciation is about respectful recognition and understanding. It means learning about and admiring another culture’s practices, traditions, stories, art, and music, not claiming them as your own.
That’s why I love sharing the stories of the artists behind the work. Each product page includes links to learn more about the artist, their inspiration, heritage, and creative process. You can also use the “Search by Artist” link at the top of the homepage to explore by name. Every time you do that, you’re engaging in appreciation, taking time to know and honour the people behind the art you love.
Understanding Cultural Appropriation
Cultural appropriation, on the other hand, is about disrespect and exploitation. It happens when cultural elements are copied, mocked, or used for profit without permission or acknowledgment. Sadly, the theft of Indigenous art is a growing problem online. Designs are often stolen and printed on products like “orange shirts,” turning sacred symbols or memorial imagery into mass-produced merchandise.
The difference between appreciation and appropriation comes down to intent, respect, and acknowledgment. Appreciation comes from genuine interest and a desire to understand. Appropriation ignores the meaning and takes without giving back.
So, what’s the bottom line?
If the art on this website speaks to you, celebrate that connection! Hang it on your wall, wear it, sip from it, and most of all, appreciate it. 😊
A Little More About the “Orange T-Shirt” Scams
You may have seen viral Facebook posts showing actor Keanu Reeves holding up an orange T-shirt. Please know, these are fake. Keanu Reeves did not pose for these photos, and the artwork on those shirts has been stolen from Indigenous artists.
The artists receive no credit, no payment, and no consent. Even Keanu’s image is being misused without permission. Countless websites and social media pages profit from this kind of cultural theft, exploiting both artists and causes.
One example is the artwork of Cree-Ojibway artist Simone McLeod. Her images are often stolen and printed on orange shirts, but Ms. McLeod does not license her art for T-shirts. If you see her work used that way, it’s stolen.
Please help by spreading awareness:
If you see an orange shirt online accompanied by a photo of Keanu Reeves, do not buy it.
The photo above is another stolen design. The original artwork is by Cree-Ojibway artist, Simone McLeod. Ms McLeod does not reproduce her images on Tshirts, so if you see this design on an orange Tshirt, it has been stolen.