Why Museums Matter

National Museum Director-General Jeremy Barns, Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian, Ayala Museum Director Mariles Gustilo, and Liveable Cities Philippines Chair Bill Luz at the Liveable Cities Lab held on August 14 at the Asian Institute of Management

For museums to continue to matter to the communities we serve, I posit that we must strive daily to be creative, fresh, relevant, and vibrant always. Because at the heart of it is a relationship.

MARILES GUSTILO
AFI Senior Director for Arts & Culture

When considering what makes cities liveable, what often comes to mind are critical areas such as infrastructure, transportation, health, education, and services. Just as essential are arts, culture, and heritage, said Liveable Cities Philippines Chair Guillermo "Bill" Luz, opening the fourth Liveable Cities Lab for the year.

"Museums are more than just places that house art and history," said Luz. "They're the heartbeat of our cities and our country, capturing the essence of who were and where we've come from. They protect and celebrate our shared stories, traditions, and values, making sure that these important pieces of our culture are passed down through generations." Museums also offer a space for people to learn and for communities to come together.

"The secret sauce to capturing their interest lies in how we tell our stories," said Ayala Foundation Senior Director for Arts and Culture Ma. Elizabeth "Mariles" Gustilo. "At Ayala Museum we do this by navigating the delicate arc of fascination to transformation. And by transformation, I mean finding joy and wonder in art and culture."

She explained that the museum, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, is doing this by telling stories that revisit history and culture; creating an elevated museum experience through thoughtful and innovative design; and engaging with its community of artists, visitors, patrons, and partners. The museum features interactive exhibits that invite guests to touch and explore its collections via digital displays and resources for the visually impaired. It has also become omnichannel, added Gustilo, bringing the museum's onsite exhibits, lectures, workshops, and performances to a larger audience online.

Gustilo was joined in the Liveable Cities Lab by National Museum of the Philippines Director-General Jeremy Barns and Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchallian.

View the recording of this Liveable Cities Lab at https://bit.ly/Aug14LabFBLive.