Museum Exhibitions 'in Flight': Displaying & Conserving Aircraft as Suspended Objects

This project will research the exhibition and installation of aircraft, and other large objects, in long-term or permanent suspension. The research consists of two, mutually reinforcing sections. The first considers the history and design practice of these installations, and their relevance to visitor experience, utilising a national collection as a primary case study. The second will establish methods for monitoring suspended objects in-situ to ensure the object's integrity over time. Drawing these together with an understanding of organisational change, the project will address a deficit in collections management/conservation research and practices with relevance for museums in the UK and internationally.