The Head in Focus

Benin Art and Visual History Ugochukwu-Smooth C. Nzewi How did this get here? The discovery of these treasures resembles that of a valuable manuscript. They are a new “Codex Africanus,” not written on fragile papyrus, but in ivory and imperishable brass.

Butterfly Hymnals That Won’t Disturb the Pleasant

Complacency, And Other Lullabies Shuriya Davis College Student Voices Writings based on a series of vernacular photos

Maces and Chains

The Ritual and Regalia of Commencement Caroline Scheving College Student Voices A summer intern explores the context of ceremonial objects significant to RISD’s past and present.

Artist Fellow Walker Mettling

on the Louisiana Purchase Exhibition Souvenir Textile Studio Notes Artist 2017 Artist Fellow Walker Mettling delves into the history and context of a previously overlooked textile with colonial origins.

Anchors and Attractors

Mays Albaik College Student Voices A study of the elements that pull and push a visitor through the museum’s 3rd and 4th floor spaces