NEMO: European Museum Conference 2024
21/11/2024
Editorial
This autumn, we attended the NEMO European Museum Conference 2024, hosted in Sibiu, Romania—an event that invited us to reflect on a theme as complex as it is urgent: the role of museums in an era of increasing polarization. The conference, titled "Can We Talk?", offered an opportunity to explore new approaches, share ideas, and envision the future of a sector that, now more than ever, must act as a catalyst for social change.
Museums as Spaces for Dialogue and Transformation
One of the key moments of the conference was Meta Knol's speech, where she urged participants to envision museums not only as custodians of memory but as platforms capable of projecting visions for the future. Knol introduced the concept of deep time: a perspective that spans centuries to identify profound connections between the past, present, and possible futures. Her challenge to museums? To look beyond political divisions and embrace a universal, human, and ecological perspective.
The theme of polarization was further explored by Joshua Robertson, who spoke about courageous cultural leadership. Robertson emphasized the importance of questioning institutional certainties, accepting the discomfort and risk that change brings. A concrete example? Creating spaces for open dialogue, as some Belgian museums have done by inviting Extinction Rebellion activists to engage in conversation following a protest.
Museums Without Boundaries
During the conference, much was discussed about how museums can open up to underrepresented communities, offering spaces where all voices can feel welcomed. The experiences shared by Mirjam Wenzel, director of the Jewish Museum Frankfurt, highlighted how difficult yet necessary it is to address sensitive topics such as antisemitism. At the same time, Anders Bettum's Tanum project at the Intercultural Museum in Oslo demonstrated how museums can become places to challenge stereotypes and prejudices, working closely with local communities.
A question that ran through the entire conference was: Where does dialogue end and the need to protect fundamental values begin? As E-J Scott emphasized, while museums must be open to a plurality of perspectives, they must also firmly uphold principles of equity, truth, and respect. It is important to provide space for dissent, but without compromising on issues such as racism, transphobia, or misinformation.
What we take away from the NEMO 2024 conference is a renewed vision of the role of museums: living organisms, in constant dialogue with society and its transformations. It’s not just about numbers or major exhibitions, but about building meaningful relationships and leaving a lasting impact.
The future of museums depends on their ability to remain relevant, to face challenges with courage, and to envision a more inclusive world. This is the path that lies ahead, and we at SOLUZIONIMUSEALI ims are ready to embark on it with you.