Objects and Collections

Module code: MU7016

This module looks inside the museum (and related institutions) to consider objects and collections. It explores what forms they might take, how they have been collected and catalogued through time, and how they are curated, managed and cared for in contemporary professional practice. The module challenges you to engage questioningly with objects, collections and their lives, contexts and values in the museum. It will equip you with a critical understanding of the principles and practice of collections management and collections care.

As well as learning through lectures and other materials, you will be involved in creative, hands-on and team-based work that will enable you to develop and practise practical skills in handling, working with, planning for, managing and caring for objects, Topics covered include the characteristics, materiality and experiencing of objects; museum management practices for objects and collections; principles, planning and systems for museum documentation; cultural and ethical questions in relation to the ownership and care of objects; collections care – including risk assessment, and the identification and management of environmental threats to collections within the museum.