Museum Reopening Guide
In the government’s roadmap to lift lockdown restrictions, museums in England and Wales can reopen from Monday, 17 May. This presents an exciting opportunity to revisit cherished collections and explore new exhibitions for the first time. In Scotland, museums have already opened since Monday, 26 April, while those in Northern Ireland will open from 24 May.
The Impact of Lockdown on Cultural Institutions
It has undoubtedly been a challenging period for cultural institutions. A survey by The Art Newspaper reveals that last year, visitor numbers at the world’s top 100 museums and art galleries fell by a staggering 77 percent compared to 2019. Consequently, revenues have significantly decreased, leading to redundancies in staffing and cuts in exhibition budgets, despite the assistance provided by the government’s Culture Recovery Fund. Recovery may take several years, and sadly, some institutions might be forced to close their doors permanently.
Your Role in Supporting Museums
Therefore, as museums begin to reopen, it is crucial for us to show our support. Engaging with your local cultural institutions by visiting, spending time in their shops, and attending exhibitions can significantly aid their recovery efforts.
Experiencing Virtual Exhibitions During Lockdown
During the lockdown, many of our cultural curiosities were satisfied through online tours and virtual lectures offered by museums across the UK and worldwide. Even post-lockdown, there is still a chance to immerse yourself in remarkable exhibitions. Some noteworthy current exhibitions are:
- Arctic: Culture and Climate at the British Museum
- Queer + Croydon at the Museum of Croydon
- Electronic: From Kraftwerk to the Chemical Brothers at the Design Museum
Moreover, several upcoming exhibitions in 2021 include:
- Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature at the Natural History Museum
- Nero at the British Museum
- AI: More than Human at Liverpool’s World Museum
Conclusion
In conclusion, as we transition back to enjoying cultural experiences, it is vital to remember the importance of our local museums and cultural institutions. By visiting and participating in their programs, we can support their recovery while enriching our own understanding of arts and history.
