museums – Prycer Consulting

The “Period of Significance” Trap

How do we break through some of the traps historic houses place on themselves?

So much inspiration!

On a recent trip to DC, I was inspired over and over again by some incredible exhibit design ideas.

When you’re a museum fan and an ornament collector, you might end up with a very full Christmas tree. . . Ornaments have long been one of my go-to souvenirs for big trips, so it’s little wonder that my tree is full of a lot of historic house museums. Several years ago, my friend andContinue reading “An Ornamental History”

Fan Girl

Over the years, quite a few trips have featured a visit to a literary landmark. For some, like Prince Edward Island or Mankato, MN, the destination was determined by the book. For others, like Orchard House and Hannibal, it was a pleasant (and necessary!) detour. Last week, an article called The Fantasy, and Folly, ofContinue reading “Fan Girl”

The Stories We Could Tell. . . If We Paid the Interns

Here’s the simple truth: I wouldn’t be in the museum field if it wasn’t for a string of paid summer internships during my college years. But this origin story is rapidly becoming extinct.

Museum Surprises in Houston

As a Dallasite, it is required that I dislike Houston. And after spending three days there recently for the Texas Association of Museums conference, I can’t say that I’ve totally changed my mind. However, there are some wonderful museums there, and much like my experience in Philadelphia, I was genuinely surprised by a few spots.Continue reading “Museum Surprises in Houston”

Museum Surprises in Philadelphia

Sometimes, being a museum professional ruins museums. We develop our inner checklist, the things that we judge others on. It may have nothing to do with anything a “regular” visitor cares about, but it causes us to think differently and move differently through an exhibit. I’ve warned family and friends not to visit a museumContinue reading “Museum Surprises in Philadelphia”

I’m not the only one!

My friend Kim forwarded this blog entry to me. It’s all about using stories to teach history at museums. Are you surprised that I liked it? Seriously though, this is a great program. Years ago, I went to a session about this particular program. Somewhere I still have the list of book recommendations they handed itContinue reading “I’m not the only one!”