The modern museum came into being at the same time as European colonisation expanded across Asia, the Americas, Oceania and Africa. Museums in Britain benefited directly and indirectly from all forms of colonialism, whether through donations from individuals who worked in the colonies, formal collecting expeditions overseas, or the looting, seizure and dispersal of materials through imperial wars and conflict. 

In recent years, debates about the repatriation of objects have captured headlines, but this is only one facet of the interconnections between museums and empire. What about the language used to describe objects and how they are exhibited? Is the history of European colonialism included in the version of the past that’s presented in museums? To what extent were European museums tools of empire, and can a museum like Kelvingrove be decolonised? 

This walking tour of Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum examines the entanglements between museums and empire. We’ll discuss Kelvingrove’s links with chattel slavery, colonialism and imperialism; recognise the ways this history continues to shape it today; and think about how museums can be spaces for having meaningful conversations about empire and its legacies. 

Accessibility 

This tour follows a route through the museum that makes use of lifts. There are toilets, including accessible washrooms and those equipped with baby changing facilities, throughout the building. Kelvingrove can be a noisy environment, particularly on weekends when it is especially busy. While the tour begins in the main Centre Hall, we will for the most part be spending time in smaller galleries where noise levels are lower. 

Additional Information 

This event is part of a research project at the University of Glasgow that examines walking as a critical heritage practice. Led by Dr Rosie Spooner, a lecturer in the School of Humanities, the project involves developing, leading and seeking feedback on guided walking tours and self-led walking resources. By joining this tour you are participating in the experience of collective walking. This will be documented through written field notes and occasionally photography (no recording devices will be used during the tours). At the end of each tour, attendees will be given the opportunity to share their experiences and provide feedback through completing a short survey. Participation is voluntary and all responses will be anonymised.

This event is free but booking is essential.