Museum, Gallery and Heritage - Week 1:

The definition of the museum has evolved following the development of society, and is not easy to pinpoint as it is highly influenced by the individual person's preference for it (Alexander, E. & Alexander, M., 2008). However, many experts agree to one aspect: the museum's primary function is to house and exhibit collections of tangible or intangible objects for educational purposes or simply for pure enjoyment of the general public. Museums are non-profit institutions, funded by either the government, organizations or private donors. Museums, according to Thomas P.F.Hoving, former director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, are a great potential -- they are both a 'regenerative force of society' and a 'crusading force' for quality and excellence (Alexander, E. & Alexander, M., 2008). Collections in the museum must be intact and well-maintained for the purpose of education, study or display.

Galleries, on the other hand, are usually privately owned venues that commonly displays art with the sole purpose of buying or selling it (Finearts360.com, 2012). Galleries employ a curator, who ensures there are visitors and potential buyers visiting the gallery and is responsible for the arrangement of the art in the space according to a particular theme or artistic style.

Heritage has different definitions, but essentially it means "inheritance" or "valued objects or qualities that have been passed down from generation to generation". Heritage can be either tangible (objects) or intangible (values, fables or culture).

Both institutions share the common trait of preserving and exhibiting a society's heritage (although, in personal opinion, the museum more so than the gallery). More often than not, exhibitions in both places would reflect the society's (or country's) particular cultural heritage, and the museum may provide the public with more, such as a country or society's historical heritage or scientific development.

References:
Alexander, E.P. & M., 2008. Museums in motion: an introduction to the history and functions of museums. 2nd ed. United Kingdom: AltaMira Press.

Finearts360.com. 2012. Difference between an art gallery and a museum. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www.finearts360.com/index.php/difference-between-an-art-gallery-and-an-art-museum-1288/. [Accessed 14 May 14].