UCLA

ABSTRACT OF THE THESIS

Indigenous Artistic Expression in the Crossroads of Los Angeles:

Adornment, Beautification, and Guerrilla Jewelry

By Damien Monta�o

Master of Arts in American Indian Studies

University of California, Los Angeles, 2016

Professor Mishuana Goeman, Chair

The intended purpose of my thesis is to, initially, explore the transformation of the cultural functions of traditional Native American artwork and jewelry occurring today. In addition, I will define the concept “Guerrilla Jewelry” in the particular context which I have applied the term by presenting existing figurative and literal representations relevant to my work. Furthermost, I will present an argument distinguishing the correlation between Indigenous Art and Guerrilla Art.