museumization

Museumization refers to the process by which objects, places, or even intangible cultural practices are transformed into artifacts for display and preservation within a museum context. This can involve the physical removal of an item from its original setting and its recontextualization within a museum's collection and exhibition spaces. It also encompasses the deliberate selection and preservation of certain aspects of culture or history, often leading to the exclusion or downplaying of others.

The term can carry a critical connotation, suggesting that the original meaning, function, or social significance of an item or practice may be lost or altered when it becomes a museum exhibit. Critics argue that museumization can decontextualize cultural heritage, turning living traditions into static displays or reducing complex historical events to simplified narratives. This process can also lead to the commodification of culture, where objects are valued for their potential to attract visitors and generate revenue rather than for their intrinsic cultural importance.

However, museumization is also essential for the preservation of cultural heritage, protecting artifacts from decay or destruction and making them accessible to a wider audience for educational and research purposes. Museums play a vital role in interpreting and presenting history, offering insights into past societies and diverse cultures. The debate surrounding museumization often centers on finding a balance between preservation, accessibility, and the authentic representation of cultural significance.