Hew Locke: What Have We Here?

My expectations were high not only because Hew Locke’s work and the themes that surround it, but how open the British Museum would be to explore, question and challenge imperialism and colonisation. Let me tell you, FINALLY there is a fresh perspective in the history and the collection of the museum.

Locke focuses on Britain’s historical facts with Africa, India and the Caribbean, all of which had a significant impact on the history of Guyana, where Locke spent his formative years. The display is rich with historical objects and Locke’s work, including a new commissioned work: The Watchers. They are a sort of ancestral entities observing visitors from different points, positioning them above us, which creates the perfect shift.

But I think what I liked the most was Locke’s writing on the labels. A raw and honest insight. Plane, simple, and totally needed. This approach evolves an ethical -and activist- curatorial practice and an impactful insight. I hope it will continue with future shows and at different institutions.

The only thing I am questioning is that this show should be free to visit. The museum is free anyway and, if this is part of the museum’s strategy plan of opening needed dialogues, everyone should visit this, mostly African, Indian, and Caribbean communities.

I’m looking forward to seeing Part II.