The article discusses the “Entre Vizinhos” project at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, focusing on sociomuseology and its exploration of museums beyond traditional collection stewardship. It highlights the shift towards care and interdependence within communities, emphasising the importance of museums in contributing to social well-being. The project aimed to attract a diverse audience by engaging with local residents who shared the same postal code as the Tate Modern, promoting inclusivity and community involvement.
Participants in the project created artist books that reflected personal stories and experiences, showcasing the power of art in building connections and trust among neighbours. The project’s goal was to encourage dialogue and collaboration between the museum and the local community, fostering a sense of belonging and shared cultural experiences.
By focusing on the intersection of art, community, and social change, the “Entre Vizinhos” project exemplifies a new approach to museum engagement that goes beyond traditional exhibition practices. It highlights the potential for museums to act as agents of social change by leveraging their resources to enrich individual lives and enhance community well-being. Through innovative projects like this, museums can redefine their roles and responsibilities, becoming more responsive to the needs and interests of their visitors and communities.
