Sustainable scenography: applying circular design strategies to temporary exhibitions. 01/11/2025 - 31/10/2029

Abstract

In the search for sustainable development, museums have recently been showing a great willingness to adapt and improve their practices towards more sustainable methods. Of growing concern is the huge waste pile that stems from their activities, more specifically the production of temporary exhibitions. Although circularity is an interesting way to limit the negative environmental impact, it has scarcely been researched. An in-depth analysis provides insight into current practices and ambitions around sustainable scenography. In this transdisciplinary study, we analyse circular design strategies from the construction sector as additional inspiration for a more sustainable future scenography of temporary exhibitions. The geographical scope is Flanders, Brussels, and the Netherlands, as they share a similar political and financial policy context, and interesting cases have been found during preliminary research. Qualitative data is collected through explorative, multiperspective research, which includes surveys, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and case studies. This will result in a better understanding of various alternative applications and their respective impact. Finally, we formulate circular design indicators and guidelines by means of a participatory process, that enables museums, designers, and contractors to improve their practices.

Researcher(s)

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

  • Research Project