Museum and Heritage Show
Barker Langham founder Eric Langham took the stage as Vice Chair of the Association for Heritage Interpretation (AHI) at the Museums + Heritage Show on 14 May.
Eric presented Interpretation Gold: creating a circular economy for exhibitions, a bold initiative challenging the sector to rethink how we create, share, and reuse interpretive materials.
His vision calls on museums and heritage sites to pass on surplus display cases, signage, and even entire exhibits – ensuring that valuable resources flow to those who need them most. This circular model doesn’t just reduce waste; it bridges access gaps, empowers under-resourced institutions, and fosters a more connected, equitable cultural landscape.
Eric also argued that exhibitions are never just temporary. With thoughtful design, the objects, ideas, and experiences we create can ripple far beyond their immediate context – sparking connections, creativity, and lasting change.
This approach goes beyond sustainability, embracing regenerative practice that repairs, revitalises, and empowers the communities and cultures we serve. Eric’s call to action invites the sector to imagine a future where interpretation lasts longer, works harder, and sparks fresh collaborations – redefining the life cycle of exhibitions and shaping a more sustainable, generous museum world.