Guests in this episode include Dr. Ayana Flewellen—an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at Stanford University, an archaeologist, a storyteller, and a co-founder of the Society of Black Archaeologists— and Ariana Makau (Conservator Spotlight), President & Founder of Nzilani Glass Conservation.
Our hosts explore how ordinary objects, experiences, and practices hold extraordinary significance in Black culture, challenging the mainstream focus on Black excellence by celebrating Black mediocrity and authenticity. In this episode, Dr. Flewellen discusses their upcoming book and dives further into the self-making practices of African American clothing and adornment.
Dr. Ayana Omilade Flewellen (They/She), Assistant Professor, Department of Anthropology, Stanford University, Co-founder of the Society of Black Archaeologists, Board Member of Diving With A Purpose.
www.societyofblackarchaeologists.com
Watch: “Archaeology in the Time of Black Lives Matter“
Read: Dress and Labor: An Intersectional Interpretation of Clothing and Adornment Artifacts Recovered from the Levi Jordan Plantation https://doi.org/10.1007/s11759-022-09443-4
Read: “The Future of Archaeology Is Antiracist”: Archaeology in the Time of Black Lives Matter https://cup.org/32ZkY9k
Ariana Makau is the founder of Nzilani Glass Conservation; their mission, “Be Safe. Have Fun. Do Excellent Work.” focuses on education through information, sharing: processes, health and safety procedures (specifically lead exposure) and the importance of preserving cultural landscapes and the environment. Ariana’s work is most fulfilling when at the intersection of equity, preservation and art. Makau has an MA in Stained Glass Conservation from the V&A/RCA, in London, England; and has worked in preservation for 30 years. She has worked at numerous museums in the States and abroad including the V&A, the Met, SFMoMA and the J. Paul Getty Museum. Ariana has served on the Board of the Stained Glass Association of America (SGAA), is a Fellow of the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), and a Board Member of the Western Chapter of the Association of Preservation Technology (APT). Makau currently serves as the Interim Collections Care Director of Destination Crenshaw – the largest public/private Black art program in the U.S with more than 100 public artworks.
Listen to Episode 2 on Spotify or Apple!
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in each episode of the Black Art Conservators podcast are those of the individual speakers and guests and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or views of all persons associated with the Black Art Conservators group.
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