Museum and art gallery professionals steward collections, engage with the public, and maintain the integrity of their institutions. Professionals working with historical collections also need to navigate and address the dark pasts of collection objects. How should house museums manage objects that have links to challenging histories, for example, objects made from endangered species, or those that depict enslaved people?
This lecture considers some of the many ethical issues considered by museum leaders, and highlights the constantly changing public expectations of what is considered ‘ethical’ and 'appropriate'. How are these issues addressed by house museums? What are appropriate narratives in 2024? Case studies of fine and decorative art objects at The Johnston Collection will be discussed.
Dr Louise Voll Box is an art historian, arts manager, and educator. Prior to her appointment as CEO of The Johnston Collection in 2023, she taught in the art history, curatorship, and arts management programs at the University of Melbourne. Her research interests focus on the collection and display of eighteenth-century material culture, collecting and exhibiting prints, the English Country House, and juxtapositions of business and the arts. Louise has been awarded several international research scholarships, including the prestigious Harold Wright and Sarah and William Holmes Scholarships at the British Museum. Louise has served on a number of arts-related boards and committees and is a Trustee for the Colin Holden Charitable Trust which supports exhibitions, scholarship, and research on prints and printmaking.
Please note:
No stilletto heels as they damage our heritage floors.
There is no ramp access into the house. Please see our Accessibility page for details https://www.villaalbamuseum.org/visit/accessibility/
Image: The Green Drawing Room from The Best of Britain | William Johnston: His Residence and Collection The Johnston Collection 5 Apr - 1 Oct 2023, Image: Adam Luttick, Luts Photography
