Anna Arabindan-Kesson

Anna Arabindan-Kesson enriches the academic discourse on African American and Black Diasporic art through her role as an Associate Professor at Princeton University. With a joint appointment in the Department of Art and Archaeology, she brings a unique interdisciplinary approach to her research and teaching. Her scholarly interests are deeply rooted in the exploration of Black Diaspora Art, particularly focusing on the intricate histories of race, empire, and medicine during the long 19th century. As the director of Art Hx, a pioneering digital humanities project, Anna Arabindan-Kesson leads efforts to illuminate the intersections of art, race, and medicine within the context of the British empire. This project serves as both a digital platform and an object database, offering invaluable resources for scholars and students alike to engage with these complex themes. Her work with Art Hx not only advances academic inquiry but also fosters a broader understanding of the cultural and historical narratives that shape our world. In her teaching, Anna Arabindan-Kesson is committed to creating an inclusive and dynamic learning environment. She encourages students to critically engage with art and its historical contexts, challenging them to consider the broader implications of visual culture in shaping societal perceptions of race and identity. Her courses often integrate diverse methodologies, drawing from art history, cultural studies, and postcolonial theory to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subjects at hand. Through her research, teaching, and leadership in digital humanities, Anna Arabindan-Kesson continues to make significant contributions to the fields of African American and Black Diasporic art. Her work not only enriches academic discourse but also inspires a new generation of scholars to explore the vital intersections of art, history, and social justice.