Category Archives: Theory & Practice, Volume 1

Archival Authority: Can There be Neutrality in the Exhibit Creation Process? JENNIFER WACHTEL, MLIS, MA Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract As public institutions take an active role in movements for social justice, this paper questions the neutrality of archivists selecting materials for display in a university gallery. Contextualized within theories of archival activism demandingContinue reading “Archival Authority: Can There be Neutrality in the Exhibit Creation Process?”

Assessing Millennial Engagement in Museum Spaces HALEE SOMMER, MA  Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract Swift declines in visitation and funding are growing concerns among museums in the United States. Many institutions are asking themselves how to remain relevant in the 21st century, despite rapid changes in digital technologies and communication. One significant way mayContinue reading “Assessing Millennial Engagement in Museum Spaces”

Silo Busting: Common Sense KELSEY ORION DEGREEF, MA Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract The classification systems that we use to organize museums have created collaboration-stifling silos between, and even within departments. Because of their ability to impede strategy and innovation museum-wide, there is an overwhelming need to dissolve them. However, little effort has beenContinue reading “Silo Busting: Common Sense”

The Deaccession Dilemma: Themes in the American Debate about Art Museum Deaccessions WENDY DICKIESON, J.D. Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract There are three schools of thought on museum deaccessioning. First, conservatives think art in a collection should never be removed because doing so violates the museum’s duty as a steward of the public trust.Continue reading “The Deaccession Dilemma: Themes in the American Debate about Art Museum Deaccessions”

Freelancing and the Future of Museum Work REBECCA MIGDAL, MA  Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract How are museums evolving in an increasingly “gig”-based U.S. economy? And how do emerging museum professionals confront those changes? An estimated 30% of the American workforce does freelance work. The growing pool of freelancers includes talented and knowledgeable museumContinue reading “Freelancing and the Future of Museum Work”

Upholding Diversity in Cultural Spaces STACEY R. QUEEN, MA  Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract This article examines the responsibilities museums of the future will have in connecting with communities of diverse cultures through an increase in employing people of color, contributing to a plan for community vitality, and increasing diverse cultural representation in exhibitionContinue reading “Upholding Diversity in Cultural Spaces”

Engaging with Empathy: Staff Support for Emotionally-Charged Exhibitions LACEY LIEBERTHAL, MBA, MA Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract Is your staff prepared to engage with an upset visitor? When a museum displays emotionally-charged material, this scenario becomes more likely. This article emerged following a story about a frontline staff person who sat with a cryingContinue reading “Engaging with Empathy: Staff Support for Emotionally-Charged Exhibitions”

The Room Where It Happens: How Policy and Perception are at Play in Museum-School Relationships JULIA KENNEDY, MA Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract While policy has advanced the formal educational world, perception has prevented legislative growth in the museum sector. This paper explores the communicative barriers with a review of relevant works, a caseContinue reading “The Room Where It Happens: How Policy and Perception are at Play in Museum-School Relationships”

Replication Ramification: Ethics for 3D Technology in Anthropology Collections ELIZABETH BOUTON, MA Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract 3D scanning and printing have many applications in the museum field for digitization, reproduction, storage, and exhibition. This technology provides enhanced access for researchers and the public, offering the ability to replicate objects that were once ineligibleContinue reading “Replication Ramification: Ethics for 3D Technology in Anthropology Collections”

Shifting Perspectives: The Millennial Influence on Museum Engagement JOHN BELLO, MA and SARAH MATCHETTE, MA  Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, 2018 Abstract Currently, millennials, or Generation Y, are one of the largest demographics. Though museums usually attract an older audience, cultural organizations are changing their operations, the content on display, and the way content is valued,Continue reading “Shifting Perspectives: The Millennial Influence on Museum Engagement”