Repatriation Collaborations Using 3D Technology: The Smithsonian-Tlingit Experience

Summary

Smithsonian repatriation efforts have resulted in close consultation and collaboration with tribes and Alaskan Native communities that have enabled exploration of museum resources and shared interests taking the communities and the Institution far beyond what was envisioned by most when the repatriation legislation was first enacted. In particular, the Tlingit Dakhl'aweidi clan and the Hoonah Indian Association have worked with the National Museum of Natural History to pilot collaborations using 3D digitization and replication of repatriated objects. In these cases, already repatriated items are digitized by the museum and in close consultation, replicated using 3D printing and milling technology. These collaborations show that the replication capabilities are not exclusive to museums and institutions and will rapidly be integrated into community cultural preservation/perpetuation programs. The replicas serve as important educational media for both the community and the museum and bring parties closer together, enhancing relationships and understanding between the museums and tribes.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 81st Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL (2016)   •
• NAGPRA and Beyond: successes and shared benefits of collaboration

Keywords

Spatial Coverage