Algeria: Archives, Memory, and Visual Culture
In my research, I use Algeria’s archive as a means to discuss the role memory plays in the visual culture which informs our modern world of Algeria as its own nation state. Through linguistic anthropology, I define the archive and discuss the legal terms of the Evian Accords as they relate to Algerian national heritage seized during French invasions. With respect to visual culture, I examine artistic works which shape, reference, and interact with the archive, giving particular attention to Algerian national cinema. I use Pierre Nora’s notion of lieu de mémoire to establish the archives as an extension of the temporal and spatial range of communication, serving to better inform us of modern day French-Algerian relations.