Sensitive, Problematic, Contested by Kunsthaus Zürich

Sensitive, Problematic, Contested by Kunsthaus Zürich

The way in which museums deal with the cultural heritage they are holding has increasingly become the focus of public debate. At the core are the critical examination of collection histories and the biographies of artefacts, 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 how to deal with pressing issues such as restitution, representation, and cultural dialogue.

The Kunsthaus Zürich is one of Europe’s leading art museums and Switzerland’s largest art institution. The Museum Rietberg in Zurich is Switzerland’s preeminent museum of art from non-European cultures. The Swiss National Museum unites the National Museum Zurich, the Château de Prangins, and the Forum of Swiss History Schwyz, as well as the Collections Center in Affoltern am Albis near Zurich.