As museums navigate uncertain times, some seek to look back in the hope that the new normal will recover the lost publics, most of whom can only be reached online intermittently and in between lockdowns and restricted access procedures. Others have slowly but surely embarked on systemic change.
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At this point in time, we might ask whether museums can morph into genuinely democratic, inclusive and polyphonic spaces for critical conversations about pasts and futures. We could also question whether museums can ever be fully integrated within communities, acting as co-catalysts for radical changes in ways of seeing and living. Indeed, will a human-centred museum, in harmonious existence with the natural environment, ever see the light of day?
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This conference seeks to present the latest thinking, actions and initiatives that modestly or radically depart from the traditional museum idea, to rethink the museum of the future. We are keen on showcasing the latest developments in the museum landscape, be they reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic, conceptual initiatives that have been in the pipeline for a while or tangible projects happening and evolving in the now, and which may well inform, influence and define the museum of the future. We are particularly keen on showcasing the lessons learnt over the past year and the ways and means how these have been overcome. Yet, we are also eager to create spaces for critical reflections that can help shape museum futures.

We shall explore three possible strands of museum futures. The first concerns technology and online, as museums seek to transit into a new mode of relevance. We are curious to learn how this might be taking shape and how the possible equilibrium between physical and online can be achieved. The second concerns the democratisation of access, and how the museum can become a public space, be it physical, virtual or both, welcoming a polyphony of voices. The third is about climate change and how museums are, can or may rise to the challenge. We consider the three as being inextricably intertwined, with each informing the other.

We welcome contributions from scholars, museum curators and directors, think-tanks, institutions and others working in the museum sector who act as or support game changers in the sector. We are also keen on best practices and projects that have taken shape in response to the COVID-19 crisis, particularly if these were informed by or inline with the thinkers and presentations featuring in our pre-conference webinar events. Submissions are welcome until June 12 2021 to be submitted via the conference website. The abstract (not more than 300 words) has to include name and affiliation (if any), including a short bio-note (not more than 200 words), and five keywords that best capture the essence of your presentation.

The conference will be a blended experience with online and in-person delegates and presenters. Presentations can happen both in-presence and on-line. All content will be displayed online and our platform will make it possible for you to participate from anywhere around the world.