Gogodala: A Cultural Revival?
Author(s)
Title
Gogodala: A Cultural Revival?
Publication Type
Language
eng
Location
Papua New Guinea
Keywords
rituals
revitalisation
Gogodala
Western
Relevance to ICH Safeguarding
ICH Genre
Description
Like many groups in PNG, the Gogodala traditionally produced magnificent carvings for use in ceremonies. In the early decades of the 20th century, European missionaries and Papuan evangelists identified such objects as symbols of the "heathen darkness" from which the Gogodala were to be rescued. By the 1930s, the work of the missionaries had resulted in mass burnings of ritual carvings and the suppression of traditional ceremonies. In the early 1970s, anthropologist Tony Crawford visited the Gogodala. He found almost no traditional artwork remaining, and people in a state of cultural stagnation. Stimulated by discussions with elders, Crawford submitted a detailed plan to the newly formed National Cultural Council of PNG to construct a traditional longhouse in an attempt to revive the carving traditions of the past. A grant was awarded, and, despite opposition from local Gogodala Christians, the longhouse was completed and officially opened as the Gogodala Cultural Centre in 1974.
Publisher
Institute of Papua New Guinea Studies
Place of Publication
Boroko
Date of Publication
1977
Academic Field
anthropology
Community/Ethnic Group
Gogodala
Western
Contributor
Active Contribution
Papua New Guinea, FY 2024