The construction of European colonial ideologies and aesthetics over the long 18th century: a Q&A with Alisha Ma
The Function of European Art and Design as Instruments of Coloniality
Alisha Ma is a PhD candidate in the Department of International History
My research encourages museums and heritage institutions to think critically about how the colonial legacies within their collections shape the meaning of an object or artwork, and how this can be better communicated to public audiences.
What are you currently researching?
My research is broadly about the function of European art and design as instruments of coloniality. I’m interested in the aestheticization of exoticism within the context of European imperial expansion during the period, 1600-1800. My PhD project is a case study on these themes in relation to William III and Mary II (1689-94) as these monarchs were both avid collectors of decorative art and botanical specimens from across the globe, influential patrons of art and architecture, and the figureheads of arguably the two fastest growing European empires in the late seventeenth century –the Dutch and the English. My research examines key mechanisms involved in the cultural and ideological self-fashioning of the English crown as an emerging global, imperial power in the late seventeenth century.
Why did you choose this area of study?
I have been interested in the use of artworks and objects as historical sources since my undergraduate studies. After countless gallery visits, I also became particularly interested in museums, their collections, and their capacity to shape and disseminate knowledge. During my master's degree in early modern history, I learned to integrate these visual and material methodologies with the archival research that I was trained in as a historian. This allowed me to conduct hands-on, object-based research with museum collections that was situated in wider historical contexts. My area of study thus became an intersection between art history, global history and material culture.
How will your research have a wider impact on society? Can you give some real-world examples of the impact your research will have?
Beyond academia, my research encourages museums and heritage institutions to think critically about how the colonial legacies within their collections shape the meaning of an object or artwork, and how this can be better communicated to public audiences. Additionally, this project challenges the way people understand and relate to objects not just in public spaces but also at home, given that many objects from William and Mary’s collections have become everyday household commodities.
What have been the highlights of your research work so far?
As a major perk to studying in central London, I have been able to visit many archives and museums for my research. To name a few, I spend a lot of my time with seventeenth-century manuscripts in the British Library, the Royal Archives at Windsor Castle, and the National Archives. I like to attend various research seminars both across LSE departments and at other universities in London, which is both intellectually enriching and socially exciting. This allows me to not only expand my knowledge into other disciplines but also meet so many brilliant scholars. Another highlight has been attending conferences overseas, where I have both chaired and presented on panels.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
The work can sometimes be overwhelming, especially in the first year when there are so many drafts to produce in advance of the upgrade assessment. There seems to be an endless number of books and articles to read, decisions to make about how to structure the thesis, and balancing those tasks with opportunities to attend conferences, seminars, and other exciting events. However, this has been made easier thanks to the guidance and support of my supervisor.
What advice would you give to prospective students on the most effective way to approach research and keep stress levels down?
Set firm work boundaries and treat your research like you generally would with any other full-time job. That could mean not working on weekends, having a designated workspace that isn’t at home, and making the most of your holidays to rest outside of term time. Also, have fun and enjoy yourself! Always be guided by passion when approaching research.
In a few words, what is the best thing about studying at LSE?
LSE itself has an excellent and diverse research culture, but it’s even more great that the university provides access to so many different global networks. My studies are enriched by LSE’s reach across academic, professional and public spheres.