Research Lab
As a pioneering non-profit museum research and development laboratory, we are committed to transforming the future of museums in Africa by providing innovative, inclusive, and community-driven solutions. Over the next decade, we will engage in a series of projects and activities that aim to redefine museum spaces, collections, and public engagement strategies, ensuring that African museums become more accessible, sustainable, and reflective of local communities. These include:
001.
Accessibility Audits and Public Engagement Studies.
Our team will conduct accessibility audits of existing museum spaces across Africa, identifying barriers to physical, sensory, and intellectual access. We will work with local communities to propose modifications and develop solutions that make museums more welcoming and inclusive. Simultaneously, we will conduct public engagement studies to understand how museums can better serve the diverse needs of their visitors.
002.
Resource Development for African Museums.
We will research and develop resources for African museums, including templates for collections management systems, marketing strategies, and educational tools. These resources will be adapted to the unique challenges of African institutions, focusing on ethical, sustainable, and community-driven approaches.
003.
Workshops on Diversity and Audience Engagement.
We will organize "Designing for Diversity" workshops that focus on how African museums can enhance audience engagement through inclusive and participatory programs. These workshops will feature experts in audience research, education, and outreach and will provide participants with practical tools to develop responsive museum programs that reflect the needs of their communities.
004.
Sustainability in Museum Design.
Our research will expand into developing templates for sustainable museum design and operations. We will explore how African museums can integrate environmentally friendly practices into their buildings and exhibitions, with a focus on energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and reducing environmental impact.
005.
Community-Led Initiatives and Living Heritage Exhibitions.
We will research and develop strategies for community-led museum initiatives that foster more meaningful and interactive experiences. These initiatives will include living heritage exhibitions, which showcase cultural practices, traditions, and crafts in a way that is dynamic and evolving. We aim to develop models adaptable to various local contexts, where communities are actively involved in shaping the museum narrative.
006.
Africa Collections Management System.
As more cultural artifacts are repatriated to Africa, we will research and develop templates for user-friendly ethical collections management systems that are sustainable and fit for African museums. These systems will prioritize local contexts and the respectful care of collections, ensuring that they are trackable and accessible to other institutions across Africa. We will also advocate for policy changes that ease the flow of objects across regions to support collaborative exhibitions.
007.
Feasibility Studies for New Museums.
Our team will conduct museum feasibility studies for both new and existing museums in Africa, offering tailored recommendations for design, audience engagement, and long-term sustainability. This will include research into collections management, building design, and community integration to ensure that new museums serve their intended purposes effectively.