Broadening the Role of Museums and Cultural Institutions in Society
In a world constantly facing social, political and economic challenges, cultural entities with an interest in the common good are called upon to think more deeply about their role and impact in society. There is a genuine need for cultural organisations to become more active players in the community and appeal to a wider public in order to address matters such as diversity, inclusiveness, innovation, creativity and participation.
The 5th Museum Day Conference, which we are co-organising with the U.S. Embassy and the Benaki Museum in Athens, and with the U.S. Embassy, the State Museum of Contemporary Art and the Thessaloniki Concert Hall in Thessaloniki, will focus on these topics.
Prominent speakers from Greece, the US and UK will share ideas and insights as to how museums and other cultural institutions can function as agents of change in society.
- Karen Wong, Deputy Director of the New Museum, will share with us the concept of the Ideas City Festival, a collaborative, civic and creative enterprise that extends the museum beyond its walls into the civic realm.
- Anita Contini, Head of Arts and Culture at Bloomberg Philanthropies, will discuss how to create cultural programmes that are shaped by their audiences, attract funding from donors and encourage debate on global challenges such as human rights and tolerance.
- Esme Ward, Head of Engagement at the Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester – awarded the prize for the best UK museum in 2015 – will talk about taking creative risks and initiatives in order to make the community part of the artistic and creative mission of the museum.
Representatives from Greek museums, cultural institutions and cultural initiatives will also contribute to the discussion.
Simultaneous interpretation from/into Greek and English will be provided.
Admission is free and places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
The full programme will be announced shortly.
Athens
| When | Thursday 26 November 2015, 09.00–16.30 |
| Where | Benaki Museum (Amphitheatre) 138 Pireos Street 118 54 Athens |
| Registration | www.eventbrite.com/e/the-inclusive-museum-t-tickets-19182461258 |
| www.facebook.com/events/983112435063497 |
Thessaloniki
| When | Friday 27 November 2015, 10.00–17.00 |
| Where | Thessaloniki Concert Hall 25 Martiou Street 546 46 Thessaloniki |
| Registration | www.eventbrite.com/e/the-inclusive-museum-thessaloniki--tickets-19226087746 |
| www.facebook.com/events/1636908319898152 |
Information
For further information, please contact Maria Papaioannou:
| Telephone | 210 369 2336 |
| Maria.Papaioannou@britishcouncil.gr |