Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book addresses the ways in which the work of the curatorial team affects the experience of the visitor. It explores the ways in which visitors can build strong, lasting memories of their experiences in museums, and how curators can support making memories through their work in the gallery. The book discusses how museum staff and leaders can take action to make their institutions work better for social justice in and out of the gallery. It looks at physical experiences in the museum, paying special attention to the promises and challenges of immersive environments. The book also discusses the connection between content in the museum and visitors’ own experiences. Often this includes a connection to contemporary events. It concludes with support for museum professionals as they rupture categories that keep us from helping one another and retain those that band us together.