Tamara Newton

I am undertaking a PhD History of Art, thesis titled Analysing the Repatriation of Indigenous Belongings from UK Museums: Three Case Studies and Proposed Changes to Repatriation Procedures, at the University of Birmingham, supported by the Haywood Scholarship and the WM & BW Lloyd Charity. My research investigates and compares distinct approaches to the repatriation of Indigenous belongings from UK museums, with an emphasis on how heritage institutions can prioritise care for Indigenous communities, their belongings, and facilitate revitalisation through repatriation processes.

With a background in art history, fine art, gender and sexuality studies, and British colonial history, I aim to critically analyse colonial legacies in innovative and provocative ways. My work seeks to contribute to institutional change within museums, address the underrepresentation of Indigenous perspectives and self-determination, and develop practice frameworks to guide repatriation efforts.

There is a pressing need to re-evaluate the distribution of responsibilities in repatriation claims. Indigenous communities and their representatives often bear excessive pressure and responsibility in the process. Therefore, a reform in the system is necessary to provide tangible support for Indigenous claimants without institutions assuming a dominant role that undermines stakeholder autonomy. A comprehensive understanding of cultural nuances requires a deep appreciation of the intricate bond between humans and belongings.

Upon completion of my doctoral research, I plan to establish a consultancy specialising in repatriation services for international institutions and Indigenous communities interested in engaging with UK museum collections. This consultancy will aim to facilitate repatriation efforts, build partnerships, and serve as a mediator to support claimants and alleviate burdens. Additionally, I will use the insights from my PhD research to educate UK museum professionals on best practices for repatriation and restitution.

I am part of the ERC Repatriates research project cohort, and the International Repatriation Network.

I also engage in critical analysis of colonial legacies in Portugal. The article "Contemplating Colonial Echoes: Visitor Perspectives in a Portuguese Museum" was published in the Exhibition journal Spring 2026 edition; and "From Artefacts to Blackface: The Ongoing Influence of Colonialiasm in Portuguese Culture" received the 2025 DC Watt Prize from the Transatlantic Studies Association for best conference paper by an early-career scholar. Other works include the online article "Anindilyakwa Cultural Heritage Return from Manchester Museum" (2023); "History of the Dadikwakwa-kwa shell dolls and the Warnindilyakwa People" in Tides of Return Biennale di Venezia Exhibition Book Catalogue, ed. by Khadija von Zinnenburg Carroll, Chris Willimans Wynn and Verena Melgarejo Wenandt (Hatje Cantz: 2026); and conference paper "The Interplay of Art, Activism and Indigenous Sovereignty in Marcella LeBeau's Ghost Dance Shirt" presented at the Birmingham University LCAHM Conference (2025).

I am available to assist with those undertaking repatriation work and am open to collaborating on projects that promote more international repatriation initiatives. Feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss further:

[email protected]