About us
Founded in 2004, the Research Centre for Transnational Art, Identity and Nation (TrAIN) investigates historical, theoretical and practice-based research in art, architecture, craft and design.
This research is driven by the desire to critique dominant ideas of 'globalisation' and to open up new perspectives that address questions of how art and design can respond to social (in)justice, decolonisation of institutions and the creation of more diverse global art histories.
Research projects
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Credit: The Fourth Plinth, 'Nelson's Ship in a Bottle' by Yinka Shonibare, Trafalgar Square, London. 2011. Author: Brian Gillman. Creative Commons.
Worlding Public Cultures
Developing a critical art theory and practice-based approach to social innovation. Promoting discussion of decolonising museums, the impact of globalisation on art, and decolonial curation.
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"Change your life" 1989-1990, graffitied section of the Berlin Wall by East German Artist Jürgen Grosse (INDIANO) as part of 223 individual Berlin Wall pieces painted with motivational slogans for global audience. Currently in front of the Imperial War Musuem in London. Photo by E. Warner.
Postsocialism and Art
Exploring hidden legacies of postsocialism in Eastern Europe. Creating a platform for a community of artists and art historians interested in the former Eastern Bloc.