The Museum Accessibility Spectrum: Re-Imagining Access and Inclusion

The Museum Accessibility Spectrum volume engages with discussions around access to museums and argues that what is impairing the progress of museums towards inclusion is the current ableist model of access.

Drawing on contributors from international museum researchers and practitioners, artists and activists, this volume challenges the notion of the core ’able’ museum visitor, and instead proposes all individuals are positioned on a multidimensional Accessibility Spectrum, which incorporates intersecting physical, sensory, neurodivergent, social and cultural dimensions. It explores the ways in which access provisions designed to enhance the experience of a minority, can enhance the museum experience for all visitors. A constructively critical approach is taken to practice-based chapters, using case studies and approaches from around the globe, split into three main sections. Within the Disability Gains section, authors consider the benefits of inclusive design, perspectives and practice for all visitors to the museum sector. The Social and Cultural Inclusion section examines ways in which museums have broadened representation and participation to better serve audiences who have been excluded, or ＂underrepresented＂ by the museums. Finally, the Agents of Social Change section considers how, with this work, museums are challenging systemic biases and exclusions. . The international, cross-disciplinary contributions in this volume are driven by research-informed practice and will transform existing thinking to change future practice within the museum sector by challenging this ableist bias.

The Museum Accessibility Spectrum will be of interest and importance not only to museum practitioners and researchers, but also to readers with an interest in cultural studies, critical disability studies, translation studies, and inclusive and universal design.

Alison F. Eardley is an interdisciplinary researcher, trained in cognitive psychology (and employed in a Social Sciences School at the University of Westminster, London, UK). Building on her previous work on imagery, imagination and spatial processing in congenitally totally blind people and the sighted, Alison’s work is now focused on access, inclusion, interpretation and evaluation within the museum sector.

Vanessa E. Jones has a background in art history and museum education and has extensive expertise in access and inclusion. As the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery’s Access Programs Manager since 2015, she has advocated for accessibility and led the development of programs and initiatives to enhance the experience of all visitors, including those with disabilities.