MUSEUM 7002 - The Secret Life of Objects: Museums in Practice

This course focuses on the life of objects as they move into, through and, sometimes, out of cultural institutions. It explores the complex histories of how objects have been acquired by museums and art galleries and how they continue to be managed, conserved and displayed by different institutions. Providing unprecedented access to local museums and the professionals who manage objects throughout their journeys, this course addresses key practical skills in museum practice including conservation, collection management, significance assessment and curation. Harnessing the diverse expertise of museum staff, scholars and heritage specialists, students will explore the broader principles, politics and ethics of contemporary custodianship.