What might you discover if you spent 5 minutes with this artwork?
Hello. I’m Claire Bown.
I believe every museum visit has the potential to spark wonder and create lasting connections.
I help museums, galleries, and cultural organisations create participatory experiences that invite visitors to look closely, think deeply, and connect meaningfully with art and objects.
Contact me for TRAINING | CONSULTING | SPEAKING requests.
THE THINKING MUSEUM APPROACH
Over the past 14 years I have developed an approach with engagement at its core, for educators, guides, docents and teachers to easily use on guided experiences.
The Thinking Museum® Approach is a way to engage audiences with what they are looking at, who they’re with and where they are.
It fosters meaningful connections: between educators and participants, amongst the participants themselves, and with the artwork or object being explored.
The Art Engager: Reimagining Guided Experiences in Museums
In my book The Art Engager, I share proven strategies and practical tools for transforming guided experiences.
The Art Engager is your comprehensive guide for designing meaningful, interactive museum experiences. You’ll discover how to create inquiry-led discussions using tools like the 10 Questioning Practices, the CHOOSE framework, and the Discussion Cycle.
Full of well-researched insights and practical strategies, this book is valuable for both newcomers and seasoned professionals in museums, galleries, cultural organisations, and historic sites.
Available worldwide through your favourite online platforms and retailers!
WORK WITH ME
I partner with museums, galleries, and cultural organisations worldwide to help them create more meaningful, participatory experiences for visitors.
I bring fresh perspectives and practical strategies to help you engage audiences in new ways. Book me to consult on a project or exhibition, design and facilitate workshops and training for your team, or speak at your conference or event.
- Training & Workshops – The Thinking Museum® Approach, slow looking techniques, The Art of Engagement, facilitation skills
- Consulting – Programme development, exhibition interpretation, educational content creation
- Speaking – Interactive keynotes, workshops, and “slow looking” interludes at conferences, professional gatherings, and staff development events.
Available online, in-person, or hybrid formats.
THE ART ENGAGER PODCAST
I publish a new podcast episode every other Thursday on all aspects of engaging your audience with art, museums and ideas – from techniques, tools and ideas, to helping you develop your skills or approach.
Listen to The Art Engager on your podcast player of choice.
