Mérida Mehaffey is an interdisciplinary material culture scholar based in Brooklyn, New York, who explores the intersections of museum studies, cultural history, anthropology, and fine art. Concentrating on Indigenous artworks from the American Southwest, she studies the histories and ethics of collecting, museums, and curatorial practice. Her current research is focused on collaborative art-historical frameworks and curatorial strategies that prioritize epistemological diversity, as well as culturally responsive, care-oriented methodologies. Engaging object-based methods in her writing, research, and teaching, Mérida is committed to advancing public scholarship and accessible education.

Qualifying Paper: A Partnership Ethic: Indigenous Artist-Led Collaborations in Museums

Concentration in museum practice, digital scholarship, and public engagement