Claire Bown - Speaker
Rijksmuseum's collection: a slow looking mission
Museum Educator, Author of The Art Engager and Founder of Thinking Museum®
Abstract:
When was the last time you spent more than 30 seconds with a single artwork? In this guided session, Claire Bown leads a refreshing slow looking experience at the Rijksmuseum, inviting delegates to observe carefully, think critically, and connect personally with selected artworks from the collection.
Drawing on her Thinking Museum® Approach, this participatory workshop guides delegates through structured looking techniques and thoughtful dialogue, transforming how they observe, connect with, and find meaning in art.
About Claire Bown:
Claire Bown (she/her) is a museum educator, facilitator, and founder of Thinking Museum®, a consultancy dedicated to creating more reflective and participatory experiences in museums. With over 25 years of experience in the museum and heritage sector, she works internationally with institutions to develop inquiry-led and audience-focused programmes.
She is the host of The Art Engager podcast, a leading resource for museum professionals. In 2024, she published The Art Engager: Reimagining Guided Experiences in Museums, a practical guide for creating inclusive, slow, and conversation-based encounters with art. Claire advocates for thoughtful, people-centred engagement that places curiosity, observation, and connection at the core of museum practice.
🎟 Join us at CTA Amsterdam 2025
📅 17–19 June, 2025