Global Trajectories of Thought and Memory: Art and the Global South
Description of the research group
This research group explores and complicates the diverse forms that art takes in the Global South. By “Global South” we refer to geographical regions that span across South and Central America, Africa and Asia and their dialogue with Europe. We are interested in investigating forms of representation and theorization, and in studying non-canonical and under-represented artistic practices, texts, theoretical perspectives and exhibitions. This research group brings together scholars and practitioners whose work critically considers the less-represented geographical regions of the Global South and its affiliated genealogies of thought. It provides open platforms to discuss and analyze topics relating to Global South art, art histories, visual culture and those interested in this field, from various disciplines, such as: cultural studies, material culture, performative and postcolonial studies, more broadly understood. It moreover promotes professional development by supporting and encouraging research with a Global South focus, and facilitates academic, professional and social communication by organizing activities that bring together those interested in this field.
Envisaged results
Lectures/talks, workshops, conferences, reading groups, funding applications and joint publications.
Societal relevance
Our focal point and methodologies promote critical thinking based on finding complexity, exploring different viewpoints, making comparisons and drawing connections across diversity and disciplines. In terms of societal relevance and value, our research helps cultivate conversations. In an era of globalization and mass migration, we develop a research ethos that is based on dialogue, respects inter-cultural exchanges, and embraces difference and plurality. Efforts at connecting decolonizing/decentering art histories, related disciplines and institutions cannot but help to engage directly in socio-political debates and – however often indirectly – be part of an effort to appreciate diversity, complexity and responsibility in and for democratic societies.
Research Group Type: Network & Reading group
Duration: 2021-2025
Group Coordinator(s)
Dr Eve Kalyva
Division of Arts and Humanities, University of Kent
Department of Art History
Members of the research group
- Dr. Chiara De Cesari, UvA
- Prof. Jeroen de Kloet, UvA
- Noortje de Leij, UvA
- Matisse Huiskens, UvA
- Zoénie Liwen Deng, UvA
- Lauren Meijer, UvA
- Jori Snels, UvA
- Stacey Vorster, UvA
- Christopher William-Wynn, Harvard University
- Dr. Fabiola Martinez, Saint Luis University, Madrid
- Dr. Ksenia Robbe, University Of Groningen, the Netherlands
- Dr. Sanjukta Sunderason, Leiden University, the Netherlands
- Hannah Vollam, Van Abbemuseum
- Thomas Berghuis, Independent
- Roel Hijink, Independent