Women in Archaeology

When I had the idea a few months ago to speak to an archaeologist, I was unaware at the ease in which I’d have in finding ones to engage in conversation with (which has me feeling like I’m on the right track). I also had this image in my head that I’d be speaking to an old man sporting a white mustache and donning an all khaki fit (not that there’s anything wrong with that and would be happy to meet him too). But..the reality is, I’ve spoken to WOMEN. In fact, some of the most interesting women I’ve ever met. Which leads me to the second archaeologist I’ve now connected with, Charlotte Root.

Charlotte is a ‘22 Princeton University Department of Art & Archaeology alum. Currently working and living in England, Charlotte and I hopped on an Instagram video call to connect. We spoke first about what she’s currently working on which is a publication that just released to the public involving her ongoing research on Roman Britain. I read it and I’ll be honest, as someone who’s new to archaeology terminology a lot of it went over my head - but to be expected! Charlotte’s work has a focus on women’s voices in the ancient past and uncovering religious/spirituality aspects of a civilization.

With the recent connection to Roman Britain myself in visiting the Roman Baths and the launch of the ‘Bath Spa’ collection - we ended our chat highlighting an important aspect of our work as archaeologist and artist. In order to fully connect with the ancient past - we must be in the room, step foot on the land, and stand in front to observe what’s been left behind.