On 7th February, MA Art History and Visual Culture students, led by Dr Deborah Schultz, visited the British Museum for Hew Locke: What Have We Here? as part of their Contemporary Art course. The exhibition provided a unique opportunity to explore themes of decolonisation and the evolving role of museums.
Hew Locke, a renowned Guyanese-British artist, acts as both curator and creator, selecting and reinterpreting objects from the museum’s collections. His work critically examines British imperialism, encouraging open dialogue about its cultural impact. By juxtaposing historical artefacts with contemporary works, Locke challenges traditional narratives and invites viewers to rethink how museums present history.
Students engaged directly with these ideas, considering how museums can address colonial histories and reinterpret their collections. In a small group setting, Dr Schultz facilitated discussions, encouraging students to share their responses to guided questions on-site. This interactive experience deepened their critical understanding of contemporary museum practices.
Experiential learning opportunities like this are central to our MA programme, which emphasises studying art in context. By immersing students in London’s vibrant cultural scene, we equip them with the analytical skills and perspectives needed for careers in museums, galleries, and the wider art world.
