Emergent Knowledge Bureau (2021-) is a fictional governance framework for the repatriation and restitution of museum objects, developed in collabroation with Architect Russell Royer. The project combines speculative fiction, scenario design, and role-play to explore alternative stewardship models for museum objects.
Himofe - ROTATION, Ceramic sculpture by Iman Datoo, Animation by Russell Royer
Through participatory performance, stakeholders in musuem collections (including cultural stewards, curators, artists, architects, and archaeologists) engage in a game centered on Himofe, a speculative artifact. Participants assume character roles to collaboratively shape Himofe’s evolving narrative, examining processes of amendment, complaint, and claim-making within and beyond museum spaces.
Virtual performance
Our virtual game-board allowed these experts to be in one place at the same time, despite working in different countries. Alongside participating in our performance,
they also contribute to a growing library of podcasts and interviews.
Ceramic sculpture by Iman Datoo, Animation by Russell Royer
Ceramic sculpture by Iman Datoo, Animation by Russell Royer
The main challenge was thinking beyond my own values and experiences. This was a very big challenge, but also a valuable one. I really enjoyed that you gave the ‘artefact’ a voice through a tangible person. This is a great angle for any museum professional to experience.
Rosanna RaymondArtist, Poet, and Cultural Commentator
2021 Participant
I think this is a long overdue invitation to the thinking of the links/relationships that objects create. I especially liked that the characterisation focused on this. I think anyone with a different set of beliefs would at least be forced to consider that something behind a glass box in a museum is not just an object, but a record of different relationships, emotions, personal histories and philosophies of different groups of people.
Digital Artist, Arts and Culture Writer
2021 Participant
Publication & Future performances
Our Evaluation Report provides insights into adapting the workshops for various settings—both virtual and physical—while tailoring them to specific museum collections, community spaces, or institutions.
This report, available upon request, includes a comprehensive overview of materials, timelines, and key considerations. Contact us for a copy.