ABSTRACT

This chapter draws on European research to examine the trend in museological thinking and practice and, looks at contemporary, experimental initiatives from Italy to consider the role that museums might play in promoting equality and mutual understanding between communities in multicultural societies. It highlights three significant strands of experimental practice. First, some museums are taking on the training of immigrant cultural mediators with a view to exploring a more dialogical, multi-vocal interpretation of collections. Second, some institutions are actively engaging mixed groups in the development of new, theatre techniques and other mediation methodologies, understanding and interpretation of museum objects. Third, some museums are facilitating interaction with contemporary artists in order to develop new perspectives on the notions of heritage or identity, mediated through contemporary art languages. Museums as intercultural spaces can function to not only promote the cultural rights of migrant communities but also to nurture in all individuals.