Dreading the Map

As part of the CARICUK research project, an event discussing the original artwork Dreading the Map, which is currently installed in the Society’s Map Room, is taking place on Monday 24 May.

Led by Dr Pat Noxolo, the Creative approaches to race and (in)security in the Caribbean and the UK (CARICUK) research project aims to transform discussions about race and anti-racism in UK higher education institutions.

One element of the project is the installation of an original artwork by visual artist Sonia E. Barrett at the Society’s building in South Kensington. Titled Dreading the Map, the sculpture draws on surplus maps of the Caribbean and East Africa, some from the Society’s Collections, and uses Black hair techniques to remake and reclaim what the maps represent. Barrett and a group of Black women co-creators shredded, plaited and weaved the maps together to create the installation.

Ahead of the event on 24 May, the project team are looking for participants of any colour or gender to become part of an expanded ‘Map-lective’ to create the next iteration of Dreading the Map. Participants will receive a small pack of shredded maps by post for them to plait together at home, either before or during the livestreamed event, before posting them back to Barrett for her to weave together. If you would like to participate, email your full UK postal address and any questions you may have to Sonia E. Barrett at info@map-lective.com.  

During the event, Dr Pat Noxolo and Sonia E. Barrett will discuss the original Dreading the Map installation, before a small panel, including Tia-Monique Uzor, give their reflections on the experience of being part of the Map-lective. The event will take place at 7.00pm on Monday 24 May and will be available to watch via livestream.

Find out more about the event.

Find out more about CARICUK on the project website or follow @caricuk on Twitter.