Decolonisation

Through a collaborative research and writing process, we have made small but important changes to the narrative of the galleries, especially regarding Scotland’s role in building and maintaining the British Empire and the devastating impact of this on colonised people around the world. We invite you to join us on the journey of decolonising our museum.

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A "tasteless" history of the Paisley pattern

As part of our decolonisation series, we take a closer look at the paisley pattern. Suchitra explores the historic critique of the revered Indian shawl and its British imitations.

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Paisley shawls in literature

As part of our decolonisation series, we take a closer look at the paisley pattern. Suchitra explores the representation of Indian shawls in literature, from Burns to Scott.

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A long way from home: the Paisley pattern and India

As part of our decolonisation series, we take a closer look at the paisley pattern. Suchitra reflects on her own experience in India and the Scottish involvement in the evolution of this iconic motif.

Decolonising our galleries: An introduction

Crucial aspects of Scotland’s history are underpinned by the exploitation of enslaved and colonised people around the world. As we invite you to join us on the journey of decolonising our museum, we want to explain how we’re doing it and why it’s vital.

Decolonising Scotland's design history

Crucial aspects of ​Scotland’s history, and therefore design history, are underpinned by the exploitation of enslaved and colonised people around the world.