Preserving the intangible and immeasurable: exploring wellbeing frameworks in the museum context

Abstract

The concept of wellbeing has blossomed in recent years. While discussion of wellbeing has a longer lineage in economics, it is now a popular area of concern in cultural studies. The subject has seen special focus on mental and physical health, but also cultural identity, sense of belonging, and in emotional and spiritual connections to tangible or intangible heritage. Because the values-based application of wellbeing strengthens the argument for people-centred approaches and community empowerment, some museums are increasingly integrating the concept to justify their purpose and set their objectives within their administration and collections care. This article aims to analyse the scope and meaning of wellbeing as mobilised in four cultural institutions located in New Zealand and Scotland given that each country has committed to having a wellbeing policy framework at the national level.