Breaking Protocol

This book features collaborative discussions on Indigenous performance art, led by Maria Hupfield. It explores Indigenous knowledge, land preservation, and artistic practices, highlighting contributions from various international Indigenous artists.

Breaking Protocol is a thought-provoking exploration of Indigenous performance art, led by transdisciplinary artist Maria Hupfield. Through her research project, Hupfield investigates the protocols surrounding Indigenous performance, delving into Indigenous knowledge systems, land-preservation practices, and feminist scholarship. This work is aimed at highlighting strategies for enacting refusal within decolonial frameworks, offering a fresh perspective on the intersections of art and activism.

The book is rooted in Hupfield’s Coffee Break, a series of virtual conversations held during the pandemic, where she engaged international Indigenous performance artists in discussions about their diverse practices, which range from dance to stand-up comedy. These dialogues not only fostered a sense of community but also encouraged participants to invite other artists into the conversation, expanding the dialogue around Indigenous artistic expression. The collaborative nature of these discussions serves as a foundation for the insights presented in the book.

Breaking Protocol challenges readers to reflect on what can be learned from Indigenous, place-based artistic practices. It emphasizes the importance of reciprocity and multiplicity in artistic creation and encourages a deeper understanding of the cultural contexts that shape these works. With contributions from a wide array of artists, including Rebecca Belmore and Vanessa Dion Fletcher, the book is a rich tapestry of voices that collectively advocate for a re-examination of artistic protocols and the potential for transformative dialogue within the realm of Indigenous performance art.