Research Field 01 examined the historical and contemporary relationships between European museum representations and identity, using the focus of “people(s)” and “place” to investigate how fluidity, fragmentation, dislocation and mobility impact on individual and museum constructions of identity and belonging. The analysis of key displays in museums, interviews with museums’ staff and visitor studies highlighted the importance of place for the historical contextualisation of objects and events and, therefore, the explanation of past and present phenomena that may be socially divisive, such as racisms. Through the engagement with place, museums can develop more inclusive forms of representation, localise social differences and tensions, contribute to greater social awareness, and create progressive senses of belonging.
Scientific Coordinator | The International Centre for Cultural and Heritage Studies, Newcastle University (UNEW)
Principal Investigators | Chris Whitehead, Rhiannon Mason
Associate Researchers | Susannah Eckersley, Katherine Lloyd (UNEW), Francesca Lanz (POLIMI)
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RF01 Publications and documents