About the event

Date: 23 July 2020
Location: Online via Zoom

Presenters shared the strategies, processes, and planning involved in welcoming back visitors to their institutions after being closed for a long period following natural disasters and redevelopment.

Presenters were Jenny Harper, Former Director, Christchurch Art Gallery, New Zealand; and Sarah Maltby, Director of Attractions, York Archaeological Trust / The JORVIK Group, UK.

Eve Haddow, Program Director and Lecturer, Museum Studies, The University of Queensland and Leisha Walker, Training & Professional Development Program, Museums & Galleries Queensland moderated the discussion.

Resources

Audience Recovery Seminar Series: Visitor Re-engagement recording

About the seminar series

After several months of closures, COVID-19 restrictions are gradually being eased enabling museums and galleries to reopen. However, this has presented some new challenges. How do we reconnect physically with our communities, welcome back our audiences and make them feel safe and comfortable in our venues?

In this series of webinars, Museums & Galleries Queensland in partnership with The University of Queensland Art Museum and Museum Studies Program explored different strategies and innovative approaches to audience recovery.

• When we reopen, will visitors want to come back? What will affect their decision to attend?
• How do we build our profile before opening our doors?
• What are some strategies to support our community’s wellbeing? How do we engage our local community?
• What are some ways to encourage visitation and let visitors know that we’re open and accessible?

Acknowledgements

This is an annual seminar presented by Museums & Galleries Queensland in partnership with The University of Queensland Art Museum and Museum Studies Program.