Van Dartel, Daan

Bulletins of the Royal Tropical Institute Ser.A Symposium of the Future of the Ethnographic Museum

Following a process lasting more than 15 years, during which all its permanent departments were reorganized, the Tropics Museum has decided to hold a symposium to present the results and to ask the public what the role of an ethnographic museum should actually encompass. With roots stemming back to the colonial era, a museum of this type has seen its objectives and purpose change radically over the years. Today's museums must reconsider their role in society: What purpose do museums of cultural anthropology serve? What does the visiting public want to see and what should museums offer them? What should museums be collecting and how should collections be presented so that everyone that considers the heritage as their own can also make use of it? During the first day of the symposium, which took place in December 2008, the former head of Museum Affairs, Prof. S. Legene, gave the participants greater insight into these issues. Those attending were also able to visit the museum and listen to three international experts hold a robust discussion focused on the now-completed reorganization. The second day of the symposium was devoted to future-oriented issues. Both famous and notorious professionals from around the world were invited to join the discussion. This bulletin reports on both days and serves as an excellent guide to museums that are redefining their role in society.