Decontextualise to Decolonise: Persian Tile
Three students from the Interior Architecture course at the University of Brighton write about a Persian Tile as part of the Decontextualise to Decolonise project.
Persian Tile : Case Number 1
Fragments of Time: Tactile, Visual, and Auditory Reimagining of Kashan Tiles – Molly Brockbanks-Hunt
This project tells the story of Kashan tiles in a new way, bringing their history to life through sound, touch, and sight. These ancient tiles come from Kashan, Iran. They have travelled far from their original homes, often ending up in distant museums.
Instead of just looking at the tiles behind glass, visitors can interact with them. They can hear stories about the tiles past in sound pods. They can watch the tile making process on interactive screens. And they can touch and explore the textures and designs through movable installations. Visitors will learn where the tiles have been, who made them, how they were created, and the buildings they once decorated.
As the guests explore, they will hear sounds that might have been part of the places the tiles came from. Soft footsteps in a mosque or the peaceful sounds of nature in ancient gardens will play.
A big part of this project is about decolonisation. I had to think differently about how we show and understand these objects. Instead of just seeing the tiles as passive things, my goal is to give them a voice. I want to share their story from the people and cultures who made them. This project makes sure their history is heard and respected. I am able to tell tell their story in a way that honours where the tiles come from.
Illuminated Harmony: A Modern Community Oasis – Justine Chua Ya Ting
The artifact has been reimagined as a central piece within a public park or community space, specifically in an urban area with historical or cultural significance. Placing the artifact in this context makes it accessible to a broader audience, encouraging engagement, reflection, and dialogue.
At the centre of the space is a unique level structure designed as a focal point for interaction and engagement. The structure is adorned with hanging decorative elements, which are the tiles showcasing intricate patterns that add a playful and creative touch to the environment.
The park invites people of all ages to explore, relax, and connect with nature while enjoying the artistic ambience. With carefully integrated design features, the space aims to foster community engagement, encourage creativity, and provide a versatile area for various activities. The overall concept balances functionality and aesthetics, offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for both individuals and groups. The central structure features subtle illumination, with lights highlighting the hanging decorative elements, creating a captivating interplay of shadows and reflections.
The project addresses decolonisation by moving the artifact out of a museum, where it might feel disconnected from its origins, and placing it back in a space where people can connect with it. This gives the artifact back to the community and respects its cultural significance, helping to challenge colonial ideas of who controls cultural heritage.
History in your Hands: A Ceramic Experience – Olivia Cockerton
This project is a pop-up ceramics studio. History and culture can be learned in an interactive and creative way. The studio doesn’t have a set location. It can be built in different places, like a park. People can enjoy nature while they create. The sound of birdsong and rustling leaves enhance the experience. Museums are vital spaces for education and creativity. However, they often have to prioritise security over interaction. They display artefacts where you can’t touch them!
This design changes that. Visitors are invited to take out selected tiles from the walls. Behind these tiles, they will find interesting facts. They will also find personal stories, and beautiful artwork. Here, visitors don’t just look at history – they get to create their own. In the studio, people can make and decorate their own ceramic pieces. They’ll be able to use traditional techniques and colours. Guests will leave with something hand-made. They will leave with something more personal than a gift shop item.
This project helps people feel connected to history, art, and a different culture. Here, learning becomes a hands-on experience.
