Spotlight on Heritage with Tina Barton

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In this episode, John Coster speaks with Tina Barton about her innovative workshop concept called “Museum in a Box,” a hands-on activity that encourages people to explore their personal memories and collections in creative ways. Tina explains how the idea originated as a simple “explosion box” craft template and evolved into a method of sparking conversations about heritage, identity, and storytelling. By inviting participants to fill the box with photos, personal mementos, and other keepsakes, the workshop transforms into a bridge between personal reflection and communal heritage sharing.

A key takeaway from their discussion is the power of participatory engagement in heritage practice. Rather than passively observing museum exhibits, people of all ages are brought into an active role—selecting, arranging, and discussing items from their own lives. This not only fosters a deeper connection to local history and collective memory but also breaks down assumptions about who “belongs” in heritage spaces. Tina notes that older generations often arrive with rich stories to tell, while younger participants bring fresh viewpoints and new digital skills. Together, they discover that heritage is not limited to grand historic sites or official archives; it includes everyday objects, personal passions, and shared family histories as well.

Key Themes & Discussion Points

• Hands-On Heritage: The “Museum in a Box” workshop allows individuals to build miniature memory museums, sparking dialogue about personal and collective histories.
• Bridging Generations: By inviting both young people and older adults to collaborate, the project fosters intergenerational storytelling and highlights shared experiences.
• Inclusive Participation: Encouraging active involvement—rather than passive spectating—can help people overcome intimidation or prior misconceptions about the “heritage sector.”
• Volunteer Involvement: Many local museums and heritage groups rely on volunteers. Tina emphasizes strategies to welcome new audiences and to diversify the volunteer pool.
• Creative Practice as a Gateway: Arts and crafts–based methods—such as making boxes, scrapbooks, and collages—offer a relaxed, social space in which participants feel confident exploring more complex topics like identity, memory, and belonging.

Overall, this Spotlight on Heritage episode considers how interactive, participatory experiences can revitalize interest in cultural heritage. Through projects like “Museum in a Box,” the conversation shows how creativity and inclusion can help people of all backgrounds feel a deeper connection to their own stories—and to each other.