Hew Locke’s exhibition, What Have We Here?, at the British Museum in London, serves as a powerful exploration of looting, vandalism, and the erasure of cultures embedded in the museum’s own history and holdings. Locke’s display, filled with beauty and horror, delves into the complex narratives surrounding the objects in the museum’s collection, shedding light on past atrocities and injustices.
From the looted sculptures of the Parthenon to the Taino spirit-figures of Jamaica, Locke’s exhibition challenges viewers to confront the dark past of colonialism and empire. The show features a variety of artifacts, from African drums to Victorian busts encrusted with spoils of empire, all with deep-rooted meanings and histories.
Locke’s work prompts a critical examination of museums as institutions that must address their role in perpetuating colonial legacies. Through thought-provoking visuals and historical context, What Have We Here? sparks important conversations about restitution, accountability, and the complexities of cultural heritage.
Visit the British Museum to experience Hew Locke’s powerful exhibition firsthand, on display until February 9th.
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