Made of rituals, made for rituals: Exploring the phenomenon of restricted public access to the Venus of Dolní Věstonice

This study aimed to investigate the restricted public access to individual objects in museums, which has not been explored in detail despite previous research on facilitating public access to museum collections. The study specifically focused on the restricted access to the Venus of Dolní Věstonice and sought to understand why such a significant object is only occasionally accessible to the public. The research utilised qualitative methodology and found varying opinions on the matter. The Moravian Museum deliberately chooses to keep its highlight object away from the public in order to maintain its attractiveness, and some respondents preferred this approach. The study also observed the Venus's agency and its influence on people, including the repetitive actions during transportation and installation. This thesis aims to raise awareness of the issue concerning the public's right to participate in cultural heritage, which is at odds with the Moravian Museum's current approach....Show moreThis study aimed to investigate the restricted public access to individual objects in museums, which has not been explored in detail despite previous research on facilitating public access to museum collections. The study specifically focused on the restricted access to the Venus of Dolní Věstonice and sought to understand why such a significant object is only occasionally accessible to the public. The research utilised qualitative methodology and found varying opinions on the matter. The Moravian Museum deliberately chooses to keep its highlight object away from the public in order to maintain its attractiveness, and some respondents preferred this approach. The study also observed the Venus's agency and its influence on people, including the repetitive actions during transportation and installation. This thesis aims to raise awareness of the issue concerning the public's right to participate in cultural heritage, which is at odds with the Moravian Museum's current approach. Despite the universal human right to have access to cultural heritage, the most famous object of the Moravian Museum remains hidden from sight.Show less

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Made of rituals, made for rituals: Exploring the phenomenon of restricted public access to the Venus of Dolní Věstonice