Sensitive, Problematic, Contested

The way in which museums deal with the cultural heritage they are holding has increasingly become the focus of public debate. At the core are the critical examination of collection histories and the biographies of artefacts, as well as the reflection on traditional institutional and museum practices. This volume brings together contributions on the topics of curating, collecting, researching, provenance, and presentation by museum practitioners, scholars from various disciplines, and artists. They explore new approaches to collecting, exhibiting, educating, and rethinking cultural heritage. Through case studies and topical essays, the book offers contemporary perspectives, pointing museums to new ways in how to deal with pressing issues such as restitution, representation, and cultural dialogue. AUTHORS: The Kunsthaus Zuerich is one of Europe's leading art museums and Switzerland's largest art institution. The Museum Rietberg in Zurich is Switzerland's preeminent museum of art from non-European cultures. The Swiss National Museum unites the National Museum Zurich, the Chateau de Prangins, and the Forum of Swiss History Schwyz, as well as the Collections Center in Affoltern am Albis near Zurich. SELLING POINTS: . Offers insight into important new findings on the topic of dealing with cultural heritage in museums . Points museums and other institutions to new ways in how to deal with pressing issues such as restitution, representation, and cultural dialogue . Features previously unpublished case studies and topical essays on museum practice . Documents the first international Conference on Cultural Heritage in Museums in Zurich 2024 150 colour illustrations