Collecting Our Future
What’s it about?
As part of this project we will launch a bold, city-wide campaign to co-create a new Collections Policy for the Museum of Chelmsford—one that reflects the full diversity of local life today. Through exhibitions, workshops, debates, and a cultural exchange, young people will work with communities across the district to lead the way in redefining what the museum collects, with a strong focus on inclusive heritage.
Take part in our survey… What objects tell your Chelmsford story?
“We want to try and bridge this divide between young and old because it shouldn't exist you know, and yes it's just a museum but it could be so much more. So we don't want it just to be for older people and just for young people, we want it to reflect the communities and everyone in between every group we want them to be represented.”
SPARK! Young Cultural Changemaker
“We’re thrilled to partner with young people to ensure diverse voices are heard and represented in the Museum of Chelmsford. By connecting with diverse communities, weaving their unique narratives into the collection, creating a rich tapestry of history for generations to come. We hope to create a legacy where the vibrant stories of Chelmsford’s communities come alive.“
Kate Reeder Curatorial and Learning Manager Museum of Chelmsford
A collection that shows Chelmsford’s many voices and cultures
Helping people feel connected to the museum and their city
A new way of working with the local community to create and manage the collections future
A growing collection of different stories that can help learning for many years to come
Strong links with schools, young people, and community groups
New and regular visits by people from all backgrounds
What does success look like?
Watch our reel…
Image credit: Culture Chelmsford
Our journey so far…
“Collaborating with SPARK! on discussions around the Collecting Our Future campaign for the Museum of Chelmsford was a great way to bring a range of voices and ideas to the table. Hearing ideas from a diverse range of age groups and perspectives was an excellent way to develop a solid foundation for the creative brief, so it could be executed with conviction and confidence.”
Ben Stanbury Ignite Chelmsford Partner, Founder of Menticulture Magazine
Our work with SPARK! was collaborative, beginning once their schedules allowed and quickly becoming shaped and driven by their ideas from that point on. Through in-person and online workshops, alongside ongoing conversations via WhatsApp, SPARK! shaped how the campaign should look, sound and feel, using their existing branding as a starting point. We took the lead from SPARK! on language, tone, colours, objects and placements, focusing on what genuinely represents Chelmsford to them.
Letita Mc Conalogue Projects Manager always possible
Read Maxine’s blog The opening of the Museum isn't the end, it's the beginning, all about her eye-opening tour of the Young V&A in Bethnal Green, London, with SPARK! in July 2025.
Maxine Dempster Community Engagement Officer Museum of Chelmsford
Jan - Mar: Inclusive campaign launch with survey, asking ‘what item would you collect?’
Feb - Apr: Launch of Open Call for an Exhibition Artist
Apr - Sep: Exhibition co-design & planning phase with communities
Oct - Dec: Exhibition installation phase
Jan 2027: Exhibition opens, showcasing diverse creative responses to the inclusive campaign
Our next steps…
If you have any questions or would like to find out more about the project, please contact us at hello@culturechelmsford.org.uk
Collecting Our Future is produced by Culture Chelmsford and SPARK!, in collaboration with and funded by Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford City Council, Chelmsford College, Chelmsford For You and Arts Council England.
