14.3 Critical approaches to museum studies and display theory

Museums are evolving beyond traditional display practices. They're tackling issues of representation, decolonization, and community engagement. This shift challenges power structures and aims to create more inclusive, ethical spaces for diverse voices and perspectives.

New approaches like ecomuseums and participatory models are emerging. These focus on environmental connections, local involvement, and interactive experiences. Digital innovations are also expanding access and creating immersive ways to engage with cultural heritage.

Critiquing Museum Practices

Institutional Critique and Display Politics

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  How does learning happen in museums? | Pursuit by The University of Melbourne View original

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  5 Cutting-Edge Innovations in Art History Tech | Getty Iris View original

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  Three Graduate Interns on Installing Bouchardon: Royal Artist of the Enlightenment | Getty Iris View original

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  How does learning happen in museums? | Pursuit by The University of Melbourne View original

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Top images from around the web for Institutional Critique and Display Politics

• 

  Three Graduate Interns on Installing Bouchardon: Royal Artist of the Enlightenment | Getty Iris View original

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• 

  How does learning happen in museums? | Pursuit by The University of Melbourne View original

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• 

  5 Cutting-Edge Innovations in Art History Tech | Getty Iris View original

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• 

  Three Graduate Interns on Installing Bouchardon: Royal Artist of the Enlightenment | Getty Iris View original

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  How does learning happen in museums? | Pursuit by The University of Melbourne View original

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• Institutional critique examines power structures within museums
• Artists challenge traditional museum practices through their work
• Politics of display involves decisions about what to show and how
• Curators wield significant influence over narrative presentation
• Exhibition design impacts visitor interpretation and experience
• Hidden biases can emerge in object selection and arrangement

Representation and Cultural Issues

• Representation in museums often skews towards dominant cultures
• Underrepresented groups push for increased visibility in collections
• Inclusion efforts aim to diversify perspectives in exhibitions
• Cultural appropriation occurs when artifacts are displayed out of context
• Museums grapple with ethical concerns of displaying sacred objects
• Community consultation becomes crucial for sensitive cultural materials

Decolonizing Museums

Decolonization Efforts and Repatriation

• Decolonization of museums involves reassessing colonial legacies
• Institutions confront histories of exploitation and unethical acquisition
• Repatriation returns cultural objects to their communities of origin
• Legal frameworks (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) facilitate returns
• Emotional and cultural significance of repatriated items outweighs monetary value
• Museums develop new policies for ethical collecting and display

New Museology and Community Engagement

• New museology shifts focus from objects to people and ideas
• Museums reimagine their role as sites for social change and dialogue
• Community engagement becomes central to exhibition development
• Collaborative curation involves source communities in interpretation
• Emphasis on multiple narratives and diverse voices in storytelling
• Museums strive to become more accessible and relevant to wider audiences

Emerging Museum Models

Ecomuseums and Environmental Focus

• Ecomuseums emphasize connection between culture and environment
• Local communities actively participate in preserving their heritage
• In-situ conservation protects artifacts within their original context
• Ecomuseums promote sustainable development and cultural tourism
• Focus on intangible heritage includes traditional knowledge and practices
• Examples include Ha Long Ecomuseum (Vietnam) and Skansen (Sweden)

Participatory and Digital Innovations

• Participatory museum model encourages active visitor engagement
• Interactive exhibits allow visitors to contribute content and ideas
• Crowdsourcing projects involve public in research and curation
• Digital curation expands access to collections beyond physical space
• Virtual exhibitions reach global audiences and enhance accessibility
• Augmented and virtual reality technologies create immersive experiences
• Social media platforms facilitate ongoing dialogue with museum audiences