A review by amina_miah
The Whole Picture: The Colonial Story of the Art in Our Museums & Why We Need to Talk About It by Alice Procter

5.0

I LOVE THIS.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 stars
As a working-class Londoner with skin that doesn’t glisten pale porcelain, I have always looked at Museums as a sacred space. Wholly believing I am meant to leave the buildings somehow as a better person. I’ve thought of museums as attesting for humanity, just as religious spaces do for divinity.


I finished this book feeling empowered to critically ask of these spaces: what am I being shown, why, by whom? How was this piece acquired? And most importantly, what am I not being shown and why not?


I knew going in that the book would be packed to the brim with insight that I did not have, about the history of museums and certain pieces. That it would decenter the colonial core of such institutions. I did not expect the deftly delivered phrases and heartfelt poignant punches of wit, all led by a convincing moral compass. Alice does a brilliant job here and I urge you all to read it!


P.s.: I have had the absolute privilege and joy of being guided by @aliceaprocter on an Uncomfortable Arts Tour. (Thanks to @rheabus who first informed me about her and all her incredible work.) I would absolutely recommend attending if you get the chance.


P.p.s: Colonialism is really gross guys. Don’t do it.