Examples of Different Kinds of Museums Around the World
What is a Museum?
According to UNESCO, there are approximately 104,000 museums around the world. Each museum has its own unique focus, and all represent anthropology in action, helping us to better understand our fellow humans!
In August 2022, the International Council of Museums approved a new definition for museum, which is:
“A museum is a not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society that researches, collects, conserves, interprets and exhibits tangible and intangible heritage. Open to the public, accessible and inclusive, museums foster diversity and sustainability. They operate and communicate ethically, professionally and with the participation of communities, offering varied experiences for education, enjoyment, reflection and knowledge sharing.”
People Are Culture offers this ever-growing collection of interviews with museum founders, curators, and educators, who each share the backstory and philosophy of the works they are involved in presenting to the public. Museums are an important and fascinating resource in helping us all understand the definition of culture, and offering us examples of culture in different locales.
Raw Art and The Transformative Power of Imagination
Raw Art Explained by Executive Director of Intuit Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art Raw art has been an interest of Debra Kerr for many years.
Mayan Masks Featured at Another Face of Mexico Mask Museum
Mayan masks are discussed with the founder of the San Miguel mask museum, Another Face of Mexico. Hear about Mexican indigenous customs.
Homage to Swedish Folk Art at Nordic Museum in Stockholm
Our conversation with the Nordic Museum curator reveals the back story of Swedish folk art and what inspired the beloved designs.
Curator of Croatian Museum of Naïve Art in Zagreb on Outsider Art
The Croatian Museum of Naïve Art tour offers insights into this “art of the people” movement that has been popular since the 20th century.
Painted Beehives, a Slovenian Tradition That Tells of Cultural Landscape
Painted beehives are a unique Slovenian tradition. Experience this exquisite folk art by visiting the Koželj family museum near Ljubljana.
Explore Norway’s Bunad Tradition of Norwegian Folk Costumes
Bunad, or Norwegian folk costumes, are more than handcrafted clothes. Learn about the cultural significance of Norway’s traditional dress!
The History of Croatia Inspires Unique Traditions in Konavle Valley
The history of Croatia comes alive in this powerful interview that reveals the dramatic past of life in Konavle Valley in the Balkans.
Great Blasket Islands A Microcosm of Irish Culture and Heritage
The Great Blasket Islands of Ireland are a microcosm of Irish culture. Learn about ancient folk wisdom, religious fusion, "the king".
Penobscot Marine Museum Curator Brings Maine History to Life
Our interview with the curator of the Penobscot Marine Museum in Searsport Maine reveals the enthralling life of maritime Maine historically and today.
Shipwreck Treasure Museum Reveals History of Cornwall’s Coast
The Shipwreck Treasure Museum in Charlestown offers a delightful excursion and window into the history of coastal Cornwall.
Slovenia’s Sticna Abbey Illuminates Country’s History
A visit to Slovenia’s Sticna Monastery is a must! Walk the hallowed halls where more than 70 illuminated manuscripts were created by monks.
Jacob Gelt Dekker on the Kura Hulanda Museum Curacao
Meet Jacob Gelt Dekker of the Kura Hulanda Museum Curacao. A Dutch philanthropist, and behind the restoration of Curacao’s historic Otrobanda neighborhood.
Clark Art Institute Transforms Troubled Kids with Art
The Clark Art Institute offers a program for troubled youth that presents studying art as an alternative to punishment.
Cultural Legacy of Spain’s Civil War Inspires Museum Director
The cultural legacy of Spain’s Civil War inspires a museum director’s passion for recovering marginalized heritage. Must-read for culture lovers!
Vasa Museum Conservator Reveals Secrets of 17th Century Warship
Meet Vasa Museum Conservator Malin who reveals the secrets of 300 year old Swedish warship she helps to preserve