Abstract

This article investigates Indigenous identity and facilitation in Sámi and Māori artistic expressions in Sapmi and New Zealand Aotearoa. Two cases are analyzed: (1) a portfolio exhibition bringing together Sámi and Māori artists and (2) workshops conducted for Sámi youth based on Ron Te Kawa’s solo exhibition. This study used arts-based research to investigate visual and text-based data through collective reflexive analysis, exploring concepts of ecopolitics, Whakapapa, Máddu/Maadtoe, and artistic persona. The concept defined by this study is intercultural interconnection, where interconnection goes beyond mere communication and involves understanding others through knowledge of one’s own culture. The essay applies the research method of A/r/tography, which integrates artistic practice, research, and teaching, and artist–researcher–teacher is the holistic interdisciplinary approach to the role of the author. The findings offer recommendations for facilitators in Indigenous art contexts. The findings can be applied by independent curators as well as institutions organizing facilitated meetings and projects involving Indigenous art across Indigenous communities or cultures.