Rethinking Black Identity: Alayo Akinkugbe Urges Museums to Prioritize Black Perspectives

In "Reframing Blackness," Alayo Akinkugbe delves into how art history is presented and its effects on representation within national museums across western cities. This educational framework often results in the marginalization of Blackness in key artistic spaces. By urging a shift in perspective, Akinkugbe encourages us to prioritize Blackness in our observations. She critiques the scarcity of Black curators, noting that institutions typically react to societal crises rather than fostering enduring change. Her analysis extends to her academic experience at the University of Cambridge, reflecting on calls to “decolonize” the curriculum while examining the intersections of race, gender, and class. Throughout her exploration, Akinkugbe spotlights historical representation, using significant artworks like Marie-Guillemine Benoist's "Portrait d’une Femme Noire" to expose the predominantly ignored narratives that have always existed. This examination fosters critical dialogues on racial justice and inclusion, pushing museums to authentically reflect community diversity in their programming and staffing.