University and museum in Brazil: a chequered history

Abstract

University museums in Brazil often owe their existence to circumstance rather than design, and although this has given rise to a number of outstanding collections, it has not always fostered clear institutional links and structures. With this in mind, the University of São Paulo, home to thirty‐three museums, is leading a process of reflection and change that could have far‐reaching consequences. Adriana Mortara Almeida is completing her doctoral studies in communication at the University of São Paulo and is participating in the co‐ordination of the educational programmes for the 500 Years of Brazilian Visual Arts exhibit, which will take place from May to August 2000. She has worked at the Educational Department of the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum from 1989 to 1998. Maria Helena Pires Martins is a Professor at the University of São Paulo and Director of the Education and Cultural Action Department of the Museum of Contemporary Art.

A Synopsis and Perspective of Concerns and Challenges for the International Community of University Museums

“…For example, in 1994, a survey of 553 museums and collections in Japan revealed that the majority of facilities (413) had extremely poor storage conditions, inadequate documentation and little accessibility in comparison to university museums in Western countries (kinoshita and yasui 2000). Almeida and Martins (2000) reported similar conditions for collections and exhibits in Brazil. SNOMNH curators also have observed depressing conditions in collections and exhibits at numerous university museums around the world.…”