Let me preface this by noting that I just sat down with a plate of "Szechuan pork". (Personally, I have my doubts . . . but cultural transformation has to start somewhere.)
A large portion of furry material derives from cultures and traditions not shared by those who create it. I imagine this is impossible to avoid if you are an artist who sells commissions. Some - often the better ones - take the time to research. Others don't. The commissioner may demand authenticity, but they won't unless they see value in it.
As such, I feel it is for those concerned to present the case as to why we should bother to create accurate depictions of other cultures – and it has to be better than "not offending people". No matter how just this cause is, it will be less effective than an argument focusing on how such depictions are more entertaining, more educational, and more artistically rewarding than rehashing old stereotypes, of any kind.
You can't guarantee that people won't take the easy route with costuming, or post a shallow depiction of cultural elements in the art show. However, if you take the time to explain the merits of close study, there may be less demand for such material, and in due course less supply.
I reject the position that only those who "are X" can adequately represent "X". If we accepted that, we would have no use for actors.
Let me preface this by noting that I just sat down with a plate of "Szechuan pork". (Personally, I have my doubts . . . but cultural transformation has to start somewhere.)
A large portion of furry material derives from cultures and traditions not shared by those who create it. I imagine this is impossible to avoid if you are an artist who sells commissions. Some - often the better ones - take the time to research. Others don't. The commissioner may demand authenticity, but they won't unless they see value in it.
As such, I feel it is for those concerned to present the case as to why we should bother to create accurate depictions of other cultures – and it has to be better than "not offending people". No matter how just this cause is, it will be less effective than an argument focusing on how such depictions are more entertaining, more educational, and more artistically rewarding than rehashing old stereotypes, of any kind.
You can't guarantee that people won't take the easy route with costuming, or post a shallow depiction of cultural elements in the art show. However, if you take the time to explain the merits of close study, there may be less demand for such material, and in due course less supply.
I reject the position that only those who "are X" can adequately represent "X". If we accepted that, we would have no use for actors.