A Secret History

Ekow Eshun's new job comes with a really cool office. He was recently appointed artistic director of London's Institute of Contemporary Arts, and his office walls are still blank. The space boasts high ceilings and a window you can step through onto a breezy balcony overlooking St. James' Park. "The view is amazing," enthuses Eshun, dressed in a black jacket, black trousers and a light blue T shirt. "I love the fact that you have the institution of Buckingham Palace over there, but then you have the London Eye too. I love the playfulness of it."

Eshun is...