Helen Graham

Helen Graham, an Associate Professor at the University of Leeds, dives into the transformative future of museums. She examines the museum constitution as a battleground for participation and governance. Graham highlights the tensions between conservation and accessibility, arguing for a shift towards self-representation. She introduces the concept of 'participatory worlding' and advocates for restorative practices within museum spaces, aiming to create environments that acknowledge conflict and trauma while encouraging meaningful engagement.

Helen Graham, an Associate Professor at the University of Leeds and author of *Deconstituting Museums*, explores the urgent need for change in museum practices. She discusses the concept of the 'museum constitution' and its inherent contradictions, highlighting tensions in participation and institutional logic. Graham introduces 'participation's affective work,' advocating for participatory methods that genuinely engage audiences. She challenges conventional notions of conservation and representation, urging a shift toward relational and restorative practices for a more meaningful museum experience.