Safoura Kalantari

Biography

Safoura is a Cultural Heritage Expert and Archaeologist for the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts in Iran, where she works to protect tangible and intangible heritage across the region. Safoura works directly with historical sites and museum artifacts to ensure their proper documentation and preservation, and engages with local cultural rituals, crafts and various forms of intangible heritage, documenting and protecting unique practices.

Safoura is also responsible for supervising archaeological excavations and overseeing fieldwork to ensure that heritage sites are carefully excavated and documented according to best practices. In addition, she also designs museum exhibitions and creates displays that are both educational and engaging to enhance visitor experiences and appreciation of cultural artifacts.

Safoura is specifically interested in the intersection of ethnography and heritage studies, with a particular focus on intangible cultural heritage. Currently, she is engaged in a project documenting the rituals and crafts of the Baloch people, aiming to emphasise the importance of preserving their unique cultural practices. Safoura is interested in how museums can better represent marginalised communities and their heritage through exhibitions and public programming.

Safoura has participated in international training programs, including the ICOM-ITC workshop in China, and has presented her research at major conferences such as ICOM Kyoto 2019 and ICOM Prague 2022. An active ICOM member, she has been recognized for her contributions to the heritage sector, including being named the Best Young Cultural Activist of the Year in Tourism and Handicrafts by the National Department of Youth in Sistan and Baluchestan province.

Beyond her professional work, Safoura enjoys engaging with local artisans, exploring historical sites, and promoting cultural storytelling. She is passionate about advancing museum management, conservation, and public engagement strategies while strengthening international collaborations in the heritage sector.

At the British Museum
During her time at the British Museum, Safoura was based in the Middle East Department and her UK partner placement was spent at Glasgow Museums.

Safoura’s participation in the International Training Programme was generously supported by the Barakat Trust.