Gathering of Strangers

‘Public institutions do not sit “outside” society, they are the barometer of time and place. How museums and galleries open themselves up to change and engage dissenting voices is not obvious or easy, but as a recent visitor said, “Art is an invitation to a conversation” – so perhaps our role might be to unlock that conversation.’As the world adapts to the consequences of a global pandemic, museums continue to experience unprecedented disruption and change. At the same time, there is a growing debate and dissent over what museums are for, who they speak to and what the histories, objects and ideas they are tasked with holding reflect – all taking place within a public sphere that feels increasingly dynamic and volatile.

Taking a wide-ranging and thought-provoking look at the roles and responsibilities of some of our most well-known and best-loved public institutions, Gathering of Strangers explores the critical challenges and opportunities for the museum at this point in the twenty-first century. Moving from the historical origins of the gallery to important current debates taking place around art and public engagement, the climate emergency, race equality and decolonisation, and the value of the arts in education – this book sets out the role of art and artists in imagining and shaping our collective future. It is also a love letter to the museum, from a sector leader who is at the forefront of the cultural conversation today.