Museum education is evolving, and so are the ways we engage our audiences. The days of traditional lecture-style tours are numbered, as more and more museums offer more dynamic, participant-driven, discussion-based experiences. Whether you're just starting out with inquiry-based learning in the museum or looking to enhance your existing approach, this episode is for you. It’s packed with actionable tips and strategies to guide you. I'm going to share practical insights that will help you overcome common fears, embrace the unknown, and confidently step into the realm of discussion-based inquiry-based programs. Here are my top 3 tips to get you started.LinksVTMO Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced Courses Download the Ultimate Thinking Routine ListSupport the ShowDownload the free guide - how to look at art (slowly)Curated newsletter by Claire Bown

Today, I'm joined by Rachel Nicholson (Director, Visitor Engagement & Research at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art) and Christine Murray (Head of Content at Art Processors) to discuss an art experience that revolutionises the way visitors interact with Impressionist art. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art has collaborated with Art Processors to bring to life "A Beautiful Disruption: Experiencing the Bloch Galleries," a sensorial digital journey that forges personal connections with Impressionist masterpieces and their creators. This innovative encounter leverages existing gallery technology to lead visitors through a hands-free, 'eyes-up' experience, guided by dynamic lighting and immersive audio cues. It blends technology, storytelling, and sensory elements, creating deeper engagement with Impressionist art and, at the same time, disrupting the conventional museum experience.This immersive experience encourages visitors to actively explore and engage with the art, allowing them to choose their own path and connect with paintings that resonate with them personally. This innovative approach creates a communal and social experience, transforming the way visitors interact with and appreciate art within the gallery setting.LinksNelson-Atkins website pageRachel Nicholson LinkedInArt Processors Christine Murray Linked InRediscovering joy and human connection with the ImpressionistsChristine’s recent documentary “Feelings Are Facts”

Today I’m talking to Jackie Armstrong, Associate Educator Visitor Research and Experience at MoMA in New York, about trauma-informed practice in museums. We’re exploring trauma-informed practice in museums, what it is, what it looks like and how museums can implement it into their culture and into their programming. We discuss MoMA's Artful Practices for Well-Being initiative, which offers trauma-informed programming and experiences. Jackie also shares insights on MoMA's slow looking programme and provides advice on adopting trauma-informed practices in your work. Content warning: please note that this episode contains brief references to sensitive topics. Please take care when listening. LinksSupport the ShowCurated newsletter by Claire BownDownload my free slow looking resources: how to look at art (slowly) and my simple Slow Art GuideJackie Armstrong's website: https://www.jackie-armstrong.com/Jackie Armstrong on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jackie_ArmstronArticles on museums and trauma-informed practice: Museums Must Become More Trauma-Informed3 Trauma-Informed Practices for Museums to FollowHow Explorations of Art, Trauma-Informed Principles, and Contemplative Practices Can Come Together to Support Well-Being and Nervous System RegulationMentioned in this episode:Dr Peter Levine Somatic Experiencing Dr. Karen Treisman’s book “A Treasure Box for Creating Trauma-informed Organizations: A Ready-to-Use Resource for Trauma, Adversity, and Culturally Informed, Infused and Responsive Systems" for trauma-informed principles and values Artful Practices for Well-Being Dr Glenn Patrick Doyle on Twitter

In today's episode I'll be exploring a topic that every museum educator can relate to: being prepared for the unexpected.When was the last time you were facilitating a programme and something unexpected came up? Maybe it was a spontaneous discussion sparked by an unexpected object or a group with unique accessibility needs. These moments remind us of the value of being ready for anything.As museum educators, we operate in a dynamic and ever-changing environment, interacting with diverse audiences and different groups, each with their own perspectives and interests. Unexpected situations can arise at any moment, making our roles both rewarding and challenging.In this episode, I'll take you through a variety of strategies that will help you equip yourself with the right tools and mindset to handle unforeseen situations effectively. We'll delve into everything from making quick adjustments to adopting a proactive approach. Tune in to discover practical ways to be prepared for whatever comes your way. Let's embrace the unexpected together!LinksEpisode 44 - The 4 Elements of a Great IntroductionDownload the free guide - how to look at art (slowly)Support the ShowJoin the Slow Looking Club Community on FacebookCurated newsletter by Claire Bown

Today I'm exploring Heart for Art with Gundy van Dijk, Head of Education and Interpretation at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Discover how this impactful outreach programme use Vincent van Gogh's life and art to engage children, foster their personal development, and ignite their passion for art.With over 20 years of experience in museum, art, and cultural education, Gundy is well-known for her expertise in connecting people and organisations. Gundy is dedicated to inspiring individuals, bridging the gap between audiences and stories, and promoting interaction and participation in the field of art education.Heart for Art, a programme developed by the Van Gogh Museum and DHL, aims to inspire thousands of children, with limited access to art education. Using Vincent van Gogh's work and life story, the program stimulates creative development and encourages discussions on important themes. Participating schools receive tailor-made teaching materials and a Van Gogh Museum Edition: a high-quality 3D reproduction of one of Van Gogh's artworks.I first met Gundy back in 2011 at the Tropenmuseum and we’ve been great friends and collaborators ever since. We had a great chat and I hope you enjoy it too!LinksSupport the ShowDownload the free guide - how to look at art (slowly)Curated newsletter by Claire BownJoin the Slow Looking Club Community on FacebookEpisode LinksHeart for Art https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en/about/news-and-press/press-releases/van-gogh-museum-and-dhl-launch-heart-for-art-educational-programmeVan Gogh Museum https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/enEtel Adnan http://www.eteladnan.com/Heart for Art video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzFoSNChEWEVan Gogh at School https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en/visit/school-groups/van-gogh-at-schoolThe Harvest Meditation: https://www.lessonup.com/app/search/teach/2Krq7YeurGxwev4fs/mjya2ioLJBjRKqzhR/#mjya2ioLJBjRKqzhR-index=0Gundy van Dijk on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gundyvandijk/

Immersive art experiences have become quite the sensation in recent years. You've probably heard of them or even had the chance to attend one yourself. Immersive art experiences are driven by technology, engage multiple senses and transport you into a living artwork or a different world.Imagine stepping into a space surrounded by larger-than-life visuals, captivating sounds, and interactive elements. From sophisticated new-media installations to animated retrospectives of renowned painters, the range of immersive art projects is vast.There are countless unique immersive art experiences worldwide that offer innovative and engaging ways to interact with art. But they are not without criticism. Love them or hate them, these experiences provide valuable lessons that we, as museum educators, can learn from and apply in our own environments.Listen in to find out more!LinksSupport the ShowHow to Look at Art (Slowly)Join the Slow Looking Club Community on FacebookCurated newsletter by Claire BownNew Yorker article https://www.newyorker.com/news/letter-from-silicon-valley/the-rise-and-rise-of-immersive-art

Over the past few weeks, I've been picking my favourite episodes from the podcast's archive. Today, I want to share some helpful advice about starting to use thinking routines in your art or object discussions.In September I’m going to start teaching my Visible Thinking in the Museum Online Beginners course or VTMO Beginners as it’s affectionately known. Around the same time, I'll also be publishing my book about the VTM approach - Slow Looking at Art: The Visible Thinking in the Museum ApproachI know from experience that when I teach this first VTM course, there is always a buzz when we get going and an enthusiasm to learn as much as you can as quickly as possible. There are so many thinking routines to choose from, and it can be tempting to try them all at once. But in this episode, I'll explain why it's important to take a step back and slow down. Enjoy the process and avoid the temptation to do everything at once. I'm sharing 13 tips I've learned from using thinking routines with art and objects for over 12 years. If you're new to thinking routines or the VTM approach, this episode is perfect for you!PS This is the final episode in my favourites series. Next week I'll be back with a brand new episode - I can't wait!LinksJoin our FREE community The Slow Looking ClubSupport the ShowVTMO Beginners course - starting in September 2023Find out more about my book - Slow Looking at Art: The Visible Thinking in the Museum Approach

For the next few weeks I’m choosing my favourite episodes from the back catalogue of the podcast. With over 100 episodes to now choose from, I’m taking this opportunity to revisit some of the episodes I’ve most enjoyed putting together. This is a classic episode exploring the benefits of slow looking. Slow looking is simply the art of learning through observation. I’ve been immersed in slow looking for the last 12+ years and can wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone. But don’t just take my word for it. Why would you want to slow down and spend time with an artwork or object? Why is it important to practise paying attention and noticing more details?Looking at something slowly and carefully is in itself a rewarding process – the object or art work becomes more interesting the longer you look at it. But more than this, slow looking is good for you. Today, I’m going to take you through the 12 benefits of slow looking.LinksSupport the ShowMy book is out in September - Slow Looking at Art: The Visible Thinking in the Museum ApproachDownload my free Slow Art GuideDownload the Ultimate Thinking Routine ListDownload the free guide - how to look at art (slowly)Slow Looking ClubSign up for my Curated newsletterThe Art of Slow Looking in the Classroom The Distracted Mind: Ancient Brains in a High Tech World, authors Adam Gazzaley and Larry D. RosenWhy Looking at Art Makes you Smarter Peter Clothier

For the next few weeks I’m choosing my favourite episodes from the back catalogue of the podcast. With over 100 episodes to now choose from, I’m taking this opportunity to revisit some of the episodes I’ve most enjoyed putting together. This week we're exploring the art of how to read the room.When it comes to working with groups in a museum or any other setting, being able to "read the room" is a valuable skill. Understanding the mood in the room and how receptive people are can make a significant difference in your interactions. In this rebroadcast episode, I'm exploring the art of reading a room and providing practical tips to help you enhance your ability to understand and connect with your audience.LINKSJoin our FREE community The Slow Looking ClubSupport the Show

For the next few weeks I’m choosing my favourite episodes from the back catalogue of the podcast. With over 100 episodes to now choose from, I’m taking this opportunity to revisit some of the episodes I’ve most enjoyed putting together. This week I’m sharing one of my absolute favourite episodes. I’m sharing 4 game changing questions that will really transform your museum and gallery programmes.  I’ve chosen questions that work for me time after time with all sorts of different groups, different artworks or objects, different types of museums and environments. These are all worth remembering (and carrying around in your educator 'back pocket'). LinksSupport the ShowSlow Looking ClubThe 5 Golden Rules for Asking Brilliant Questions⁠ (Episode 4)10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Asking Questions (Episode 10)How to use artworks to improve your questioning skills (Episode 15)Quick ways to improve your questioning technique (Episode 36) 3 Key Ways to Foster Curiosity in your Programme (Episode 38)How to Stay Curious in your Practice (Episode 39)‘Bad’ questions - questions to avoid in your art experiences (Episode 48) Autumn Effect at Argenteuil (1873), Claude Monet, Courtauld Gallery, London, UK, Public Domain https://courtauld.ac.uk/highlights/autumn-effect-at-argenteuil/Reyhan Hassanzadeh (2004) from the series: Terrorist, Tropenmuseum, Amsterdam, NLhttps://khosrow-hassanzadeh.com/project/terrorist-paintings-03/