Hyperlocal and Universal Practice of Community Archive: A Study of Black Cultural Archives and Brixton

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to distinguish complex relationships between cultural institutions and communities, especially with the transformation during COVID-19 due to social distance and travel restrictions; and to research Black Cultural Archives, London - and its community, Brixton - to refine the valuable practical experience of their community engagement activities.First, this paper unpicks the nature of the community and its meaning in the museum context. Second, it explores the detailed function of the museum and the archive as cultural institutions, and their special value as a place for collective memories. Thirdly, it investigates the practical value and knowledge of Black Cultural Archives and its relationship with the Brixton community, with a deep focus on their community engagement activities during COVID-19. Rich resources of case studies across the UK are discussed in this paper.

Presenters

Sissi Xiu
Visitor Welcome Assistant, Visitor Service, British Museum, United Kingdom

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

2023 Special Focus—Museum Transformations: Pathways to Community Engagement

KEYWORDS

MUSEUM, COMMUNITY, ARCHIVE, SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT, LONDON, COVID-19