Dan Hicks

Dan Hicks, a contemporary archaeology professor and curator at the Pitt Rivers Museum, joins David Frum from The Atlantic, Nigerian artist Victor Ihamenor, and art historian Bénédicte Savoie to discuss the complexities of repatriating the Benin Bronzes. They delve into the moral dilemmas of looted artifacts, the cultural significance of these treasures, and how colonialism affects current restitution debates. The conversation challenges listeners to reconsider museum practices and the ethical implications of cultural heritage preservation.

Professor Dan Hicks, a contemporary archaeology expert at Oxford and curator at the Pitt Rivers Museum, dives deep into the troubling legacies of museums and colonialism. He discusses the ethics of centering historical figures like George Pitt Rivers, revealing his ties to fascism and eugenics. Hicks argues for the need to address violent provenance in museum collections while advocating for transparency about ancestral remains. He also highlights movements for restitution and how we can reshape memory culture through informed action.

Tim Reeve, Deputy Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, discusses the groundbreaking open storeroom initiative, promoting transparency and public trust in museums. Dan Hicks, a Professor at Oxford, emphasizes the importance of accountability and restitution in museum practices. Kylie Message-Jones from ANU highlights the challenges facing museum studies programs and smaller institutions in a digital world. Together, they explore how museums can redefine their roles in society, fostering deeper connections while adapting to modern audience needs.