Image credit: Maat Black Ancient Futures exhibition
Ancient wisdom and decolonisation are connected, as both challenge the dominant narratives that have shaped our understanding of knowledge, culture, and history. Colonisation and industrialism disrupted and interrupted indigenous ways of knowing, often dismissing as ‘unsophisticated’ the knowledge, practices, and worldviews that have been passed down through generations. These systems of knowledge are holistic: deeply connected to the land, community, and unique culture. They emphasise sustainability, respect for nature, and interconnectedness between species. This report briefly explores how a new way of engaging with ancient wisdoms, story telling and reconnecting with alternative perspectives and their rich and diverse knowledge systems can play an inspiring role in designing a more resilient and inclusive future.
Inspiration from new ways of working with nature, and seeking new toolkits and frameworks to engage in symbiotic and hybrid approaches, are leading the way for innovative design practises.
New technologies provide massive scope to ancient principles and practices informed by nature. Hybrid approaches can be created and implemented through the successful application of relevant principles.
It’s clear that globalised solutions and one-size-fits-all approaches often ignore the nuance and character unique to a specific area. These overlooked characteristics can be harnessed with ecologically and culturally positive impacts.
To look forward in Futures, we start by looking back. But which interpretation are we looking at? Globally and locally, this topic is being explored within gallery spaces.
Stories shape how we relate to, and engage with, the world around us. In this ways, stories help to guide visions for the future that we would like to create. Bringing more diverse, less represented voices to the fore is a necessary building block.
