‘Connecting Classical Collections’: Bringing museums together to explore the potential for a new Subject Specialist Network for collections from the ancient Mediterranean.
University of Reading, Friday 14 September, 10:30 – 16:00
This one-day event aimed to explore the potential for a new Subject Specialist Network for classical collections, and to shape its development. ‘Classical’ collections are defined broadly as collections from the ancient Mediterranean, including Greek, Etruscan, Roman and Cypriot material. There are at least 70 such collections across the UK, which have varying levels of curatorial support, and there is scope to do more by pooling expertise and sharing experiences. The aim of the proposed SSN is to share best practice, develop collective responses to challenges, and to make the best use of these collections.
Attendees had the opportunity to discuss the potential role of a new SSN, including the extent of its remit, and to give their views on the way forward. Focusing on the theme of ‘Activism’, the workshop also presented case studies of museum projects which connect classical collections with contemporary social issues.
The event was designed for anyone working with classical collections in UK museums. In particular, curators whose remit includes such collections, but anyone with a related interest was also extremely welcome, including PhD students, academics and volunteers researching or working with classical museum objects.
This event was made possible thanks to the Vivmar Foundation, and their generous support of the British Museum’s national Knowledge Share programme. It was organised with additional support from the SSN The Society for Museum Archaeology.
If you have any queries about this event, please contact Vicky Donnellan at vicky.donnellan.09@alumni.ucl.ac.uk
Classical Collections Network 