The presentation curated by Kabage Karanja and Stella Mutegi marks a significant shift in the way we think about museum architecture, particularly in the context of colonialism. Traditionally, museums have been criticized for perpetuating colonial legacies through their design and collection practices. However, this initiative seeks to redefine the field by promoting repair, restitution, and renewal.
In Kenya, the initiative is being implemented through partnerships with local cultural entities, such as the National Museum of Kenya and the GoDown Arts Centre. These collaborations aim to create spaces that reflect Kenyan culture and history, rather than perpetuating colonial narratives. The project's focus on repair and renewal also acknowledges the need for museums to engage with their communities in a more meaningful way.
The involvement of Owen Hopkins and Kathryn Yusoff, experts in architecture and decolonial theory respectively, brings a critical perspective to the initiative. Their collaboration highlights the importance of considering the social and cultural context in which buildings are designed and constructed. By rethinking museum architecture through this lens, we can create spaces that promote understanding, reconciliation, and healing, rather than perpetuating colonialism.
The British Museum's decision to return artifacts to their countries of origin is a notable example of this shift towards restitution. The museum's director, Hartwig Fischer, has acknowledged the institution's colonial past and expressed commitment to repatriation efforts. This reflects a growing recognition of the need for museums to acknowledge and make amends for their historical complicity in colonialism.