Editorial

The Sudanese archive, shaped by conflict, preserves history through institutions like the National Records Office and museums. Yet, it remains fragmented, detached from oral traditions, and endangered by war and displacement. Discover the struggle to protect Sudan’s memory and its contested narratives.

Arab art, rooted in Islamic heritage, emphasizes universal themes through calligraphy and arabesque, contrasting with Western art’s focus on individual expression. While modern Arab artists blend traditional and contemporary styles, global modern art remains elitist, often confined to exclusive galleries. The Mona Lisa, a timeless symbol of artistic perfection, bridges craftsmanship and universal appeal, captivating audiences across cultures.

The lack of documentation in Sudan has obscured historical narratives, creating confusion about its identity. While state institutions like the National Records House and museums preserve official history, they often overlook oral traditions and traditional art, which reflect everyday life and social memory. This disconnect highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to archiving, bridging the gap between official records and the lived experiences of Sudanese communities.

Archiving in Sudan, particularly in the arts, requires balancing personal and institutional efforts. The loss of physical spaces like Khartoum, a city rich with intersecting histories, complicates this process, as archives derive power from their architectural and social context. While artists and institutions have neglected archiving due to state-focused roles and lack of funding, projects like "Decaying Bank" and "Extended Cities" attempt to capture lost memories. Addressing this gap demands collaborative efforts to preserve Sudan’s artistic and cultural heritage, ensuring both tangible and intangible histories are accessible for future generations.