Cultural Mediation in Practice: Insights from Artist Mel O’Callaghan
Resource: Museums & Galleries of NSW
In this video, contemporary Australian artist Mel O’Callaghan reflects on her experience of working with professional cultural mediators in European institutions. Drawing from her artistic practice, she offers valuable insights into how cultural mediation can shape not only audience engagement, but also the work of artists and cultural producers themselves.
Cultural mediation is widely recognised across Europe as a key approach to connecting audiences with art and ideas. It involves processes of dialogue, exchange, and creative response, opening up multiple ways of understanding and experiencing artworks. Mediators play an essential role within museums and galleries by expanding access, encouraging participation, and enriching the visitor experience.
This session is part of a workshop presented by Museums & Galleries of NSW in partnership with Artspace, exploring both the theoretical and practical dimensions of cultural mediation. Alongside talks, the programme includes hands-on activities designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of mediation and to support the development of skills for working as an art mediator.
This video is particularly relevant for educators, artists, and cultural professionals interested in participatory practices and new approaches to audience engagement.
MeWell Talks Episode #1 | Working with Dementia in Cultural Mediation with Nina Mayer
In this short video, cultural mediator Nina Mayer shares her approach to working with people living with dementia through multisensory cultural mediation.
The session demonstrates how simple yet thoughtful methods—such as starting with everyday objects, engaging multiple senses, and creating a calm, respectful atmosphere—can open meaningful opportunities for participation, expression, and connection.
Cultural Mediation in Question: Cristina da Milano on Practice and Precarity
Resource: MuseumMediatorsEU
This video features an interview recorded during the Lisbon Meeting in November 2012 as part of the Museum Mediators Europe project. Conducted by external evaluator Joaquim Jorge, the conversation with Cristina da Milano offers a critical reflection on the professional realities of museum educators and cultural mediators.
