We are thrilled to be working with the Museum of Beyond in 2026.
When we first visited, we were absolutely bowled over by the concept and delivery of this marvellous micromuseum. It made us think in so many new ways. Get a glimpse into the museum in the short video below – click on the image to go to the Vimeo page.
When is a museum not a museum? The Museum of Beyond is an artwork, generated from the creative mind of Fran Crowe. She describes it as an art installation, but at the same time, it is a museum in almost every measurable way. But as an experience, it is a wonderfully thought-provoking opportunity for the visitor to consider their role in the ‘Oil Age’.
The Museum of Beyond is presented from the perspective of a future age, looking back at our current age and trying to explain our obsession with plastic.
Just as we cannot be truly certain about the use and social significance of artefacts from our history, and so we probably make mistakes in our assumptions and labelling, so do the imagined Curators of the Museum of Beyond.
So the experience is very humorous, while packing a very serious punch in terms of giving us food for thought, not only about our modern reliance on plastic, but also how carefully we do, or don’t, dispose of plastics.
The Museum of Beyond allows the visitor to explore at their own pace, and reach their own conclusions. It is not didactic, it is not preaching. Everyone, young and old alike, is left to take their own journey of discovery and reflection.
The Museum also gives visitors the opportunity for visitors to discover and label ‘uncatalogued artefacts’ and participate in the collection themselves.
The quality of visitor contributions that now enrich the collection demonstrates just how successfully this experience encourages insight and appreciation of the peril of plastic waste.
We are currently working with Fran to expand the reach of her installation beyond Suffolk. The Museum of Beyond has been very successful in a range of long-term and pop-up venues. It is tried and tested, and is now ready to take its message beyond the coastline and the summer season. If you think you can help the Museum of Beyond find a new venue, or multiple venues, please contact us at Marvellous Micromuseums.