Mobilizing knowledge throught art – Indigenizing research methologies through Sámi and indigenous art

WP9 Birgejupmi Through Art emphasizes art and craft as a tool of in one’s environment, as a means of political survival and as a means of strengthening Indigenous voices and land and sea relations. Dáiddadállu’s work in WP9 is rooted in Sámi art and Indigenous values, knowledge and practices. as foundations for healing, resistance, and cultural survival. By combining artistic practices with Indigenous knowledge systems and research methodologies, we create platforms where art becomes a social force for transformation—locally and globally.

We document and revitalize Indigenous knowledge and philosophies, assess the impacts of climate change, and explore the transformative potential of land and community. We create spaces—both physical and conceptual—where Indigenous artist and people can share their perspectives, experiences, and artistic expressions.

WP9 highlights Sámi art and duodji (traditional Sámi craft) as:
Tools for resilience and well-being in one’s environment
Political tools to strengthen Indigenous voices
Expressions of relationships to land, sea, and ecological systems

Through international conferences, exhibitions, and education initiatives, we promote Sámi and Indigenous art as methods for healing, reconciliation, and social engagement. We build upon previous projects such as EadnametMaid and SápmiToo, and collaborate with Indigenous artists and institutions in Sápmi, Kalaallit Nunaat, and Canada.

Together with the Sámi University of Applied Sciences, we are developing an international higher education course in Indigenous art and discourse, ensuring this knowledge is sustained and expanded within academia.

Dáiddadállu builds capacity—artistically, institutionally, and collectively—to ensure that Sámi art not only survives, but actively shapes the future.