Abstract
This research explores the concept of cultural sustainability in art museums, emphasizing its connection to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly regarding inclusive, equitable education and lifelong learning. Addressing the trend of declining museum visits, especially among the young, the research focuses on strategies to attract new audiences, with particular attention to excluded and disadvantaged communities. The study underscores the relative importance of cultural sustainability compared to other sustainability pillars, highlighting its crucial role in social inclusion, audience diversity, and community outreach. It specifically examines art museums in Hungary, a relatively under-researched area in museum literature, providing evidence of innovative projects that promote cultural sustainability and the social inclusion of disadvantaged communities through artist-centered outreach. A case study of Hungary reveals a museum landscape poised for change, with examples of innovative practices in art museums. The research is supported by 14 in-depth interviews with art museum professionals, which highlight the growing importance of cultural sustainability. These interviews, along with examples of artist-led outreach projects, illustrate effective models of social inclusion and co-creation within the community context. The findings demonstrate the strong connection between cultural sustainability and social inclusion, extending beyond informal education to foster pride, dignity, community belonging, equality, and involvement. The research highlights the pivotal role of living artists who engage communities outside the traditional museum setting through interactive workshops. It recommends long-term financial support to sustain these community relationships and ensure ongoing cultural continuity.
Presenters
Zsuzsanna FeherDeputy Director, Marketing and Communications, Ludwig Museum - Museum of Contemporary Art, Budapest, Hungary
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
ART MUSEUM, CULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY, CO-CREATION, COMMUNITY, SDG
