AFTER THE ACTIVISM, WHAT COMES NEXT? EXAMINING THE DEVELOPMENT OF CULTURALLY SPECIFIC MUSEUMS SINCE THE 1960S
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Authors
Kleinschmidt, Meredith M.
Issue Date
2000
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
This master's project examines the current trends in the philosophy of community involvement in culturally specific museums within the Western United States. Thirty years ago many culturally specific museums originated to provide a focus for cultural, ethnic, or community pride. After three decades of activism for minority rights, multiculturalism has come to dominate the framework for teaching and understanding the many cultures in the United States. The debate over what multiculturalism means and how to disseminate its values has expanded in the ensuing years to reach even mainstream museums. Given the rising, even mainstreaming, interest in multiculturalism, how have culturally specific museums responded? Or, have they responded at all? Does a common, accepted philosophical structure and justification guide the mission and activities of each institution? Or are their guiding principles unique to each museum's circumstances? How do culturally specific museums define their audiences and communities? How have these philosophies and definitions changed with the expansion of dialogue on the subject of multiculturalism in the past three decades?
As museums continue to struggle to involve communities and exhibit a multiplicity of cultures, it is critical to examine and review the past and present innovations of culturally specific institutions. The articulation of current thought in culturally specific museums will stimulate new discussion and analysis of the museums's expanding role, providing information of value to museum professionals who seek to understand how better to connect museums and communities.