OK, so you say we have not been very positive lately. Here is a really uplifting thought from Nick Poole, the chief executive of the Collections Trust.
Writing on his website, he commented on the connection with the past made in the Olympics opening ceremony. It showed that Britain truly understood the links between a proud heritage and the fabric of daily life, he said. 'Our culture is playful, inclusive and grandiose precisely because we celebrate our past as the story of our present. That is the unique thing that museums do, in every community, in every village, town and city for people of every age.'
He goes on to argue that politicians and funders still required evidence about value and impact, but also needed courage and conviction. 'Without intrinsic belief in the value of a strong museum sector, no amount of measurement will ever make up for a nagging lack of conviction.' It was time to celebrate everything that was great about Britain’s museums and galleries. 'From our venues, which inspire, educate and amaze millions of people very year, to our collections and the rich, creative online resources we provide, our dazzling cultural offer is the envy of nations worldwide.'
Well said Nick: less of the tedious measurement statistics and bit more courage and conviction.
