History in Our Hands. Participatory Methodologies in Curatorial Work at the National History Museum of Chile

Abstract

This article, which features a video and a fanzine, consists of an academic description of our participatory methodologies in curating exhibits from our permanent collection at the National History Museum of Chile. This reflection on methodology asks itself about the didactic role of the museums beyond the goal of representing the diversity and complexity of the members of the nation. What abilities and values can communities acquire from the act of curating an exhibition? What type of methodologies permit a horizontal exchange of effects and affects? What are the reaches and limits of these creative activities? Online version, including video. Keywords: museum studies, curatorial practice, participatory methods, Chile, cultural heritage