One question I get asked all the time is, “But didn’t you study Archaeology?” It usually comes up right after I tell people what I do for a living now. And every time, it gives me pause. Is it really that strange? Am I that out of place?
The truth is, I came into this field with no formal background in art. I took a leap of faith—and fortunately, I didn’t have to do it alone. At LVAC, I have been patiently shown the ropes, opening up up a new world for me to observe and learn. My Director’s support as well as the guidance of all the collaborators I have had the opportunity to work with in different cities, has been invaluable, especially on days when I question whether I should have just stayed within the safe, familiar boundaries of history and research.
But there’s something about discovering new perspectives that makes the uncertainty worth it.
Last October marked a turning point for me. I spent two incredible weeks at a print studio residency, surrounded by immensely talented printmakers. Alongside my ongoing work in art conservation, it gave me the chance to dive into an entirely new art form. As someone who’s always worn multiple hats, this felt like a natural next step—an extension of curiosity rather than a detour.
And then something clicked.
I started seeing how the making of art is just as important as the final piece. How the process informs not only the outcome but its preservation, its story, and ultimately, its place in history. For the first time, my worlds of archaeology, conservation, and creative practice began to truly converge.
In a place aptly called Parivartan—which means “change”—I realised just how much I’ve grown, and how much more there is to learn. Yes, this might sound like one of those “floaty” blog posts, but sometimes, the simplest realisations are the ones that change you the most.
I still love archaeology. I still love history. And someday, I may return to it fully- to excavate and uncover the past, creating history along the way.. But I also love the intersection of history and art—contemporary or otherwise. This journey has reminded me that it’s not only okay to start something new, it’s necessary sometimes.
To anyone out there standing at the edge of a new path, uncertain of what lies ahead: change is the only constant. Whether that becomes your challenge or your catalyst is up to you.
Here’s to taking that leap.
Christina D