Museum Matters
Under lockdown, we have all witnessed how the Coronavirus has exacerbated inequalities in society. It has also generated an outpouring of compassion from communities. It is worth reflecting on these two points as museums prepare scenarios to reopen. We have witnessed the adverse impact of Covid-19 on the elderly, people with disabilities and complex needs, … Continue reading In a post-C-19 world, museum must change or close
Based in Penrith, Cumbria, Lowther is a castle ruin with a museum experience telling the story of the site, together with extensive estate, gardens and woodland. And they are achieving what most museums dream of: a quality heritage offer combined with an equally outstanding family offer. A couple of years ago, in the heart of … Continue reading Lowther Castle has it sussed
I discovered this art gallery in Amsterdam in October 2017. The Modern Contemporary (MOCO) Museum is a self-professed ‘boutique’ museum and is easily missed as it is dwarfed by neighbouring institutions Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. The building is quirky and the exhibitions are good… but what struck me most, is the way MOCO communicates … Continue reading MOCO review
The term usership. Coined by Alistair Hudson, Director of Manchester Art Gallery and the Whitworth, citing that EVERYONE is a player and has got a stake in the institutions he leads. I need to define my operating values. Top tip Caroline Newns, thank you. Working internationally as a freelancer is a real possibility. Asking GOOD … Continue reading 10 things I learned (or had re-affirmed) at the Museum Freelancers Conference
As a sector, we are obsessed by the visitor route. At the heart of it, we’re passionate storytellers who want to ensure that members of the public understand the history of a place, experience some things before others and don’t miss that little room off to the side where we’ve put the best bits! So … Continue reading Even a floorplan can be an immersive space
I cannot remember who coined this phrase but ouch, right? How many readers have worked in a museum where the weather (sunshine and rain) is blamed for low attendance? I acknowledge that some people would rather hike up a fell than wander round a museum on a glorious afternoon in July. But if you have … Continue reading “An empty museum is punishment for not being relevant to your audiences”
Museums can be fun. Seriously. Games are a great way to engage with visitors young and old. Have you noticed how old school board games have had a resurgence thanks to popular TV shows (Game of Thrones Monopoly, The Simpsons Cludo)? The same can be done in museums to engage families and schools – and … Continue reading Games in museums
If you need to develop a new way of working, grow and diversify your museum’s visitor offer, make the most of your collections and cultural assets, or if you require extra capacity to deliver a project, please contact me to discuss your needs, ideas and aspirations.
