Alexis Stallings

Thesis

‘Mind the Gap’: Contemporary Collecting in English Museums and Heritage Sites

Supervisors: Victoria Hoyle and Geoff Cubitt

Research

My research explores the historical development and current practices of contemporary collecting in English museums and heritage sites. It is guided by four key objectives: first, tracing the historical progression and professionalisation of the practice; second, analysing the methodologies and challenges faced by museum staff today, 3) to employ case studies that illuminate the types of materials collected and the role of community involvement; and fourth, critically assessing how contemporary collecting challenges traditional curatorial practice. This research utilises a mixed-methods approach involving archival analysis – drawing on registrars and policies for contextual understanding– and case study analysis, incorporating oral history interviews with museum staff to explore specific implementations and material types, as well as the associated experiences and challenges. By examining both the historical context of contemporary collecting and its present-day relevance, my research aims to provide a critical evaluation of existing methodologies and best practices. It seeks to refine museological concepts related to collection acquisition and develop evidence-based policy recommendations for the heritage sector.