Nor Osborne, Staff Writer–
Nestled behind glass walls in the corner of Eisner, a rich tapestry of Ecuadorian culture and history is ready for viewing. The Denison Museum has proudly unveiled Unarchive the Museum: Archaeological Collections and Replicas from Ecuador, an exhibit curated by the multi-talented Pamela Cevallos.
Cevallos is not only an artist, but an anthropologist, professor, curator, and researcher from Quito, Ecuador. Combining her passions and her background, Cevallos has created a masterpiece, diving into the history of cultural artifacts and the implications of their presence in museums. Her reinterpretations of historic art come directly from small communities in Ecuador, incorporating artisanal expertise alongside their intricate narratives, often hidden in museums.
“The aim is to look beyond the exhibited objects and think about the journey of these objects, associating them with not only cultural but also economic values,” said Cevallos.
As she researched the history of Ecuadorian art, Cevallos was drawn to the idea of what exactly legitimacy and value mean in the circulation of art. One piece in the exhibit is a collage that spans across an entire wall, juxtaposing watercolor paintings of ancient relics against documents discussing what their monetary worth might be, in a compelling contrast. The gallery is a catalyst for reflection, encouraging viewers to question the long-lasting impacts of colonialism and capitalism.
“I haven’t seen an exhibit like this before. Seeing art critiquing the very museums they are held in? It was powerful,” said Lily Blake ‘27, a student visiting the museum.
Unarchive the Museum will be on display until May 10.