From the Caribbean to Cambridge: Reimagining Pre-Columbian Archaeology Collections Together

A face with two incised semi-circles for eyes, a triangular nose with perforated holes for nostrils and a horizontal incision forming a mouth. Two protrusions at either side of the eyes forming ears.

From the Caribbean to Cambridge: Reimagining Pre-Columbian Archaeology Collections Together, will explore theCaribbean’s pre-Columbian history through objects held at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology(MAA), at the University of Cambridge, with the aim of bringing together Caribbean diaspora communities in the East of England to collaboratively reinterpret, co-curate, and create the first permanent Caribbean display cases at the Museum.  

Funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Collections Fund, the project seeks to address the historical underrepresentation of Caribbean archaeology in museum displays and highlight the region's rich cultural heritage by placing community perspectives at the heart of curatorial decision-making. 

This project builds upon the success of Whispers of Caribbean Isles , which trialled new ways of connecting Caribbean objects in the MAA collection with the people of Caribbean communities both locally and abroad. 

Through a series of workshops, community consultations, and digital engagement activities, participants will help shape narratives, select objects for display, and contribute personal insights that enhance the interpretation of the collection. The initiative will also create a lasting impact by fostering deeper engagement between MAA and Caribbean heritage communities, both in the UK and internationally.  

This initiative aligns with MAA’s commitment to fostering inclusive and decolonising participatory curatorial practices, strengthening connections between Caribbean heritage collections held in institutions and the people they represent.  

By actively engaging Caribbean diaspora communities, the project will contribute to a broader rethinking of Caribbean archaeology within heritage institutions. 

Image credit: Head of a figurine made of fine red fabric, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Pre-Columbian. MAA E 1894.50

The Esmée Fairbairn Collections Fund is run by the Museums Association, funding projects that develop collections to achieve social impact. Since its launch in 2011, it has awarded 178 grants totalling over £12.9 million.