Embedded Files
Past, Present, and Future: Living in Material Worlds
Past, Present, and Future: Living in Material Worlds
The full display case on the 3rd floor of Pendleton East. Click the links in the text on the right to check out each theme! *Please note that some fossil casts of early hominins and a replica human anatomical teaching model used in palaeoanthropology courses may be visible in the background of these photos*
How has life changed at Wellesley over the past century? How might we change over the next century?
How has life changed at Wellesley over the past century? How might we change over the next century?
Students from Fall 2018 Anthropology 227: Living in Material Worlds took on these questions for their final project. This exhibit thinks through the material evidence of daily life at Wellesley in 1914, as captured in the artifacts uncovered by the Wellesley College Hall Archaeology Project. When the original College building burnt down overnight, these objects were frozen in time until our community-based excavation uncovered them last year. We asked you what social themes you wanted us to explore, and here we present our perspectives based on past evidence, what we see in our community presently, and how we imagine our lives may change over the next hundred years.
Academics, both collaborative and individual, are the central focus on our on campus and push students to challenge themselves and society's preconceptions. Clothing styles and ideas of bodily activity and modesty have changed drastically. Foodways bring community members together while connecting us to larger environmental issues. Gender identities continue to bring our community into discussions about assumptions, inclusiveness, and siblinghood. Socioeconomic status can create complex networks of relationships, often displayed through personal items that take on new meanings in new contexts. Traditions act to build our group identity as a community -- as you slide down Severance Hill or cheer on marathoners with your friends, long-lasting connections are made.
*Please note that some fossil casts of early hominins and a replica human anatomical teaching model used in palaeoanthropology courses may be visible in the background of these photos*
We want to hear your thoughts on life in the past, present, and future!"
We want to hear your thoughts on life in the past, present, and future!"
This exhibit was made possible due to the generous support of the Paulson Initiative and Anthropology Department.
Report abuse