# 34 - Een pakhuis vol verhalen - Leanne Selles, Directeur Museum Vlaardingen, interview 1 november 2023
The focal point of our discussion today revolves around the vibrant evolution of the Museum Vlaardingen under the stewardship of its director, Leanne Selles. Celebrating her five-year anniversary (1 november 2023), Leanne shares insights into the transformative journey of the museum, which has transitioned from a legacy of the Fishing Museum to a dynamic cultural institution that actively engages with the community. We delve into the innovative strategies employed to broaden the museum's appeal, including the introduction of diverse exhibitions that resonate with the local populace and foster inclusivity. Furthermore, Leanne elucidates the museum's role as a platform for storytelling, inviting contributions from various community members to enrich its narrative tapestry. This episode serves as an exploration of how the Museum Vlaardingen not only preserves history but also catalyzes contemporary cultural dialogue within the city.
A profound exploration of the evolution and revitalization of Museum Vlaardingen emerges through the insights of its director, Leanne Selles, as she reflects on her five-year tenure (1 november 2023). The dialogue commences with a warm welcome and a brief introduction to the director's background, rooted in a solid academic foundation in history, and marked by extensive experience within the cultural sector, including libraries and archives. Selles articulates the museum's transition from its former identity as a fishing museum to a broader cultural institution, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and dynamic approach to programming. This transformation is underscored by the successful renovation of the museum in 2015, which not only modernized the physical space but also allowed for a reimagined engagement with the community.
As the conversation unfolds, it becomes evident that the museum's operational philosophy is deeply intertwined with the city of Vlaardingen itself. Selles has initiated a significant increase in exhibitions, shifting from a mere one annual temporary exhibition to an impressive twelve per year, each carefully curated to reflect the stories and contributions of local artists and historical narratives. This commitment to community involvement is further highlighted by collaborative projects with schools, artists, and local residents, thereby positioning the museum as a civic space that fosters dialogue and understanding among diverse populations. Through these efforts, Selles aims to not only attract visitors but also to cultivate a sense of pride and ownership among the citizens of Vlaardingen, reinforcing the museum's role as a facilitator of cultural exchange.
The discussion delves into the challenges and triumphs of this journey, as Selles shares anecdotes of successful projects, such as participatory art initiatives with refugees and educational programs that engage children in museum activities. The museum's dedication to inclusivity is evident, as it seeks to lower barriers to access and create a welcoming environment for all. Ultimately, the conversation encapsulates Selles' vision for a vibrant museum that not only preserves the past but actively shapes the future of Vlaardingen, encouraging citizens to embrace their heritage while fostering new narratives that reflect the city's evolving identity.
A vivid portrait of Museum Vlaardingen is painted through the detailed reflections of its director, Leanne Selles, who marks her fifth anniversary at the helm with a commitment to transformation and community engagement. Selles recounts her journey from her initial arrival at the museum, which was burdened by a legacy tied to its past as the Fishing Museum, to her vision of a dynamic cultural institution that resonates with the present and future of Vlaardingen. The director emphasizes the significance of the museum's architectural renovation in 2015, which not only enhanced the physical space but also allowed for a more expansive interpretation of Vlaardingen's rich history, incorporating modern narratives alongside traditional ones.
Central to Selles' philosophy is the museum's role as a community hub, where local stories and voices are amplified through a diverse array of exhibitions and programming. The director discusses the strategic shift towards a greater frequency of temporary exhibitions, highlighting the museum's proactive approach in seeking out collaborations with local artists, schools, and organizations. In doing so, the museum has become a vibrant platform for dialogue, fostering connections between generations and cultures within the city. This collaborative spirit is exemplified through projects that engage community members in creative processes, allowing for a shared ownership of the museum's narrative.
Additionally, Selles addresses the challenges faced by smaller institutions in securing funding and resources, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. However, her optimism shines through as she recounts successful grant applications and innovative partnerships that have helped sustain and expand the museum's outreach. As the conversation draws to a close, it becomes evident that Selles' aspirations for Museum Vlaardingen extend beyond mere preservation; they encompass a vision of a living, breathing entity that reflects the diversity and dynamism of its community. Through her leadership, the museum emerges not only as a repository of history but as an active participant in the cultural life of Vlaardingen, continually inviting its citizens to engage, share, and celebrate their collective heritage.
In a compelling dialogue, Leanne Selles, the director of Museum Vlaardingen, reveals the nuanced journey of the institution over the past five years (1 november 2023), reflecting on both its historical significance and its contemporary relevance. The conversation begins with a personal introduction, where Selles shares her background in history and cultural institutions, setting the stage for a discussion about the museum's evolution. She articulates the necessity of redefining the museum's identity, transitioning from its previous foc us on fishing to a broader cultural narrative that encompasses the diverse stories of Vlaardingen's inhabitants. This shift is underscored by the successful renovations undertaken in 2015, which revitalized the museum's structure and allowed for a more inclusive approach to exhibitions and programming.
Selles elaborates on the museum's commitment to engaging the local community through an increased frequency of exhibitions, now averaging twelve per year, compared to the previous single annual showcase. This strategic change reflects a desire to make the museum a space of dialogue and interaction, where local artists and residents can contribute their narratives and artistic expressions. The director emphasizes the importance of accessibility and inclusivity, noting that many citizens were previously unaware of the museum's existence. As such, initiatives have been implemented to bridge this gap, including partnerships with schools and community organizations that aim to foster a deeper connection between the museum and its audience.
Throughout the dialogue, Selles shares anecdotes of successful collaborative projects, illustrating the museum's role as a facilitator of cultural exchange and understanding. For instance, initiatives involving refugees and local youth have not only enriched the museum's programming but have also created platforms for shared stories and experiences, thereby enhancing community cohesion. The director's vision for the future is both ambitious and grounded, as she aspires to continue breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of ownership among all Vlaardingers. Ultimately, the discussion encapsulates the essence of Museum Vlaardingen as a vital cultural institution, one that honors its past while actively engaging with the present and future narratives of the city.
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