Museo Banco de México, curatorial workshops
At the Museo Banco de México, we have introduced a methodology known as "curatorial workshops," which has become essential to the development of our exhibitions. Operating within the extensive network of the central bank, our museum does not function in isolation but embraces a collaborative approach that extends beyond its traditional boundaries. This involves engaging various departments of the Banco de México in a dynamic exchange of knowledge, expertise, and experiences.
These workshops involve multiple sessions where we actively collaborate with different bank departments as part of our research efforts. This interaction provides valuable insights and diverse perspectives, which significantly enhance and enrich our exhibition content. This approach has been pivotal in creating exhibitions such as "Payments in Motion: The Revolution of SPEI" and the forthcoming exhibition celebrating the centenary of the Banco de México.
Moreover, we have established collaborations that reach beyond the central bank, fostering exchanges with experts in various fields. For instance, we partnered with anthropologist Marta Turok, an authority on traditional clothing, for the exhibition "Women of the Sun, Women of Gold: The Isthmian Effigy," in collaboration with the Museo Franz Mayer. Another notable example is our partnership with renowned archaeologist Eduardo Matos Moctezuma through close dialogue and collaboration with the Museo del Templo Mayor, whose contributions were crucial to the "Coyolxauhqui Imaginary" exhibition.
Our practice not only promotes interdisciplinarity but also ensures that our exhibitions reflect the voices of those engaged in the daily operations of the bank while fostering dialogue with other cultural agents integral to their own cultural ecosystems. This results in effective communication and genuine connections with the public, creating a space where complex topics are explored and discussed in an accessible and engaging manner.
Explain in one sentence why you think the project you nominate is outstanding and could serve as an example for the entire community of modern and contemporary art museums.
This approach not only integrates diverse internal and external expertise to enrich exhibitions but also fosters genuine public engagement through interdisciplinary dialogue, setting a benchmark for collaborative and inclusive museum practices.
Explain why this practice or program is relevant and sustainable in creating meaningful and lasting connections with people, communities, and the museum context with a medium to long-term vision.
The "curatorial workshops" practice at the Museo Banco de México is highly relevant and sustainable because it fosters continuous collaboration between the museum and various departments of the central bank, as well as external experts, ensuring a dynamic exchange of knowledge that enriches exhibition content. This approach not only reflects the diverse perspectives of those involved but also builds lasting connections with the public by addressing complex topics in an accessible manner. By integrating interdisciplinary insights and engaging in meaningful dialogues with cultural agents, the practice strengthens the museum’s role in the community and supports a long-term vision of inclusivity and relevance in museum programming. This sustainable model promotes ongoing engagement and adaptation, making it a valuable example for other institutions aiming to create enduring impacts within their contexts.