Creating engaging displays


There is a growing consensus towards the creation of 'democratic museums' that challenge and involve audiences intellectually and emotionally.

This new approach to display can take many forms, but working with members of the public and artists is one key way to create stimulating museum spaces and engage audiences.

However, while introducing new voices into the museum presents an opportunity to challenge perceived wisdoms, it also raises issues around the authority of the museum in the 21st century.



Democratic displays


The social side of web 2.0 is changing visitors' expectations of museums, but this should be seen as an opportunity rather than a challenge

15.07.2010

Co-creating displays with the public


Museums can create engaging displays by drawing on the views, experiences and creativity of the general public. But co-creation projects are a tricky thing to get right

15.07.2010

Co-creating displays with artists


Bristol Museum and Art Gallery made exhibition history with its Banksy 'takeover' exhibition. But how are other museums working with artists to create stimulating displays?

15.07.2010

Challenging preconceived ideas


Museums can offer a forum for debate and discussion, but taking this approach raises issues about authority and authorship

15.07.2010

Online museums


More museums are using the internet to engage visitors, leading to greater participation and opportunities for object identification and interpretation

15.07.2010

Case study: community platforms


Hackney Museum's Plaform space enables members of the community to put on their own exhibitions

15.07.2010

Case study: giving up control


Performing arts companies such as Nuffield Theatre are pushing the boundaries of co-creation

15.07.2010

Case study: dealing with criticism


Manchester Museum's Lindow Man exhibition introduced different voices into the museum - an approach that provoked criticism

15.07.2010

Case study: crowdsourcing exhibitions


An online experiment to create the most democratic exhibition possible put responsibility for curation in the hands of the public

15.07.2010

Democratic displays: further resources


Further resources for anyone interested in co-creating displays with individuals, artists and visitors.

Have your say on co-creation


Share your views on creating exhibitions with members of the public and artists.

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Community projects


Exploring the practicalities of appealing to and working closely with groups from diverse communities, setting up advisory groups and attracting new visitors

Museums Association Conference and Exhibition


The Museums Association's 2010 Conference in Manchester will explore both museums' and the public's relationship with collections, as well as working in partnership and redisplaying collections.