A museum is an institution that houses collections of art, cultural or natural history and displays these in a way that encourages the public to learn. In a world that seems to get ever more divided, museums can provide a common ground for people of different backgrounds and political beliefs to find common ground in the stories of their heritage. They do this on both a local and global level.
Despite this, many people still don’t feel that museums are for them. Maybe it’s because they didn’t visit them as children, or were put off by a bad experience in the past. Whatever the case may be, we’ve got some tips to help you rethink your relationship with museums.
Many museums have a wide range of exhibitions. The best ones are those that tell a story about a place, a time or a people. The way this is achieved is through the artifacts that are exhibited and the effectiveness with which they are interpreted.
The term museum comes from the Greek Mouseion, which was a seat of the Muses – the nine sister goddesses who were each associated with an aspect of knowledge and culture. The use of the word expanded in Roman times to designate a place that was used for philosophical discussion and reflection. In the 16th century, the name was adopted by places that collected and displayed objects of artistic or historical interest.
When visiting a museum, it’s best to approach the experience as if you were on an educational field trip. Then you’ll be more open to it. This is especially important if you’re going with kids because you want to make sure that your child is enjoying the experience.
Rather than just looking at the objects and observing them, take a notebook and a pen or pencil. Start by making a list of things you see that you like or wonder about. Then look at those items in more detail. For example, take a close look at the corner of an elaborate frame or sketch the inlay or engraving on a gun stock.
One study found that, beyond learning, museum visits also boost a sense of psychological wellbeing. Participants reported feeling more connected to history, a greater sense of environmental mastery, and more positive relationships with others.
The key to a good museum experience is a willingness to be surprised and inspired. Then you’ll be able to leave with new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the role that museums play in our daily lives.