Historic house museums are often caught in a struggle between past and present, tasked with merging the historical and the contemporary to share relevant stories that resonate with modern audiences. While many historic house museums strive to incorporate histories beyond the apparent by delving into the labor required (often by enslaved people) to run the … Continue reading Recontextualizing Historic House Museums through a Contemporary Lens
Tag: AudienceEngagement
The Activated Collection
Collections are an obvious cornerstone of museums: since museums were first established, they have revolved around objects as both a means of preserving histories and a method of storytelling to share those histories with a diverse audience. Even as institutions have focused more on their role as an educational venue rather than a repository for … Continue reading The Activated Collection
Where Do Collections Fit In?
In the 21st century, museums are being called on to act as arbiters of social inclusion, with a new emphasis placed on sharing untold stories and amplifying unheard voices. As Richard Sandell explains, “alongside its value as an educational institution, the museum must now present its justification in terms which demonstrate its ability to…tackle issues … Continue reading Where Do Collections Fit In?
The Dallas Museum of Art’s Disjointed Physical Space
The Dallas Museum of Art (DMA), established in 1903 and now located in the city’s Arts District, serves as a fairly traditional encyclopedic arts museum (“About”). DMA’s permanent collection presents a vast array of art across the globe and across time, and its temporary exhibitions also draw from international art historical influences. While the museum’s … Continue reading The Dallas Museum of Art’s Disjointed Physical Space
Art with an Opinion 