Caroline Mytinger (1897–1980)
Author of Headhunting in the Solomon Islands: Around the Coral Sea
About the Author
Image credit: Caroline Mytinger
Works by Caroline Mytinger
Tagged
Common Knowledge
- Birthdate
- 1897-03-06
- Date of death
- 1980-11-03
- Gender
- female
- Nationality
- USA
- Birthplace
- Sacramento, California, USA
- Place of death
- Monterey, California, USA
- Places of residence
- Sacramento, California, USA
Cleveland, Ohio, USA
Monterey, California, USA - Occupations
- artist
travel writer
portrait painter
model
memoirist - Short biography
- Caroline Mytinger was born in Sacramento, California, and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. She modeled for Charles Dana Gibson and appeared in print ads of the day. She attended several schools to learn the art of portraiture, and became a noted portrait artist patronized by wealthy American families and business leaders.
She also was intrigued by anthropology and visited Guatemala, Haiti, and Panama, where she sketched and painted local peoples. In 1926, with a childhood friend, Margaret Warner, she went on an extended trip to the Solomon Islands and Papua-New Guinea. She painted and wrote about the people and places she visited in two books published later, Headhunting in the Solomon Islands (1942) and New Guinea Headhunt (1946). After her return to the USA in 1930, her work was exhibited at the American Museum of Natural History, the Brooklyn Museum, and the Seattle Art Museum, among others.
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Statistics
- Works
- 3
- Members
- 211
- Popularity
- #105,256
- Rating
- 3.8
- Reviews
- 2
- ISBNs
- 8
- Languages
- 2
Mytinger, an American artist, embarks on a daring expedition to the Solomon Islands, where she immerses herself in the local communities and witnesses their way of life firsthand. Through her vivid descriptions and beautiful illustrations, she brings to life the landscapes, people, and customs of these islands.
One of the book's highlights is Mytinger's exploration of the practice of head-hunting, a ritualistic and complex cultural tradition that was prevalent among certain tribes in the Solomon Islands. She shares her encounters with the locals and provides valuable insights into the historical and cultural context surrounding this practice.
What sets "Head-hunting in the Solomon Islands" apart is Mytinger's ability to bridge the gap between observer and participant. She develops personal connections with the people she meets, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of their lives, beliefs, and struggles. Her artwork further enhances the narrative, capturing the essence and beauty of the people and landscapes she encounters.
While the book focuses on head-hunting, it also delves into other aspects of Solomon Island culture, such as tattooing, spirituality, and daily life. Mytinger's writing style is engaging and evocative, making the reader feel as though they are embarking on the journey alongside her.
However, it is important to note that the book was written in a different time, and some readers may find certain cultural perspectives outdated or insensitive by today's standards. It is crucial to approach the content with an understanding of the historical context and appreciate the book for its anthropological value rather than judging it by contemporary societal norms.… (more)