It was a few years ago that I discovered #AskACurator Day. And I must say I totally enjoy it, although I will admit that I’m a watcher, rather than participator. But it really is fascinating to watch.

First up, Wikipedia’s definition of curator says …  “A curator (from Latin: curare meaning “take care”) is a manager or overseer. Traditionally, a curator or keeper of a cultural heritage institution (e.g., gallery, museum, library or archive) is a content specialist responsible for an institution’s collections and involved with the interpretation of heritage material.”

“It’s a way to talk to curators and people who work in cultural venues you normally don’t have access to.”

WHAT IS ASKACURATOR DAY?
Essentially it’s a Twitter chat. For those of you who are on Twitter or Instagram, on 12 September 2018 you can send a query to any specific archive, museum, National Trust, gallery or other similar organisation around the world that is taking part. When you do, just be sure to hashtag it with #AskACurator, and they’ll respond. Or you can send a general query using the hashtag #AskACurator, and any number of organisations might reply.

THE DATE
It’s all happening on 12 September 2018, so be sure to diary date it. It starts on 12th September wherever you are in the world. And as Australia is ahead of other countries is is still going on by the time we get to the 13th – so it sort of goes for a day and a bit for us, particularly if you are tweeting overseas organisations.

THE QUESTIONS
Some sample questions on the AskACurator page are:
– What is is like to be a curator?
– How do you decide what to display?
– What is the most unique object in your collection?
– What’s your favourite item?

I think you get the idea. But honestly just ask whatever you wish.

CAN I PARTICIPATE?
#AskACurator Day is open to everyone – both to those doing the asking, and those at the archives – the more the merrier for both. This is a global event, and it’s great to see hundreds of archives from so many counties already on the list. The list is constantly updated as more organisations sign up to be a part of the action, so be sure to check back nearer the time. To view the current list of archives taking part in #AskACurator Day click here.

WHAT DO YOU NEED?
Internet access and either a Twitter or Instagram account.

MORE INFO? 
For more on #AskACurator Day, click here

FOLLOW ALONG
Twitter @AskACurator
Instagram @askacurator
And of course follow the hashtags #AskACurator and #AskACuratorDay on Twitter, and on Instagram.