A necessary reckoning with the purpose and responsibility of the contemporary museum.

The way in which museums deal with the cultural heritage they hold has increasingly become the focus of public debate. At the core is the critical examination of the histories and origins of the artifacts, as well as the reflection on traditional institutional and museum practices.

This volume brings together contributions on the topics of curating, collecting, researching, provenance, and presentation by museum practitioners, scholars from various disciplines, and artists. They explore new approaches to collecting, exhibiting, educating, and rethinking cultural heritage. Through case studies and topical essays, the book offers contemporary perspectives, pointing museums to new ways in which to deal with pressing issues such as restitution, representation, and cultural dialogue.