Maria Carolina Zensen Simoes

I am a History and Archaeology student at the University of
Southern Califonia, with a passion for the digital humanities.
My passion is to use digital tools to make history more accessible and fun.

Presentation

Pecha Kucha: Chia Amisola and Digital Decolonization

Projects

Project 1: Art away from Home

My first time visiting the British Museum was remarkable to me, not only due to the collection's magnificence,
But because many of the artifacts displayed were, in fact, stolen from Britain's colonies or areas of influence.
This project addresses the multiple "British Museums" that have taken Brazilian Art away from its home.

The Brazilian Art History Diaspora

Project 2: Aztec History, made accessible and fun

Concept

This experience was made to enhance the studies of Nahua culture in middle and high schools. As a very short introduction,
Nahua cultures inhabited modern Mexico by the time the Spaniards arrived in 1498. They had distinct city states, but most of them were
under the influence of Tenochtitlan (modern day Mexico-city). Many crucial aspects of their culture were erased due to
colonization and forced conversion to Christianity. This experience was made using the illustration of the Codex Mendoza,
one of the 500 original Aztecs manuscripts that survived colonization. This experience was designed to make
the studies of Aztec and Nahua cultures more interesting and engaging.

Final: A Journey into Aztec Daily

Project 3: Indigenous Activism

Despite their differences in languages, cultures, and ways of life, indigenous groups have shared causes in the 21st century.
Activism takes many forms, but indigenous peoples all throughout the Americas fight for their rights, and to be
respected. This project aimed at mapping the multiple shapes indigenous activism takes form.

Final: Shapes of Activism

Exercises

Thoughts

Readings, reflections and questions