The Dining Room is being reimagined with the help of our Community Curators – local people who have been working with us for some time to bring new life and fresh perspectives into the museum.
Recruited through our partners – Awakening Minds, Theatre in Flow, Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, and The Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain: Rochdale Branch – they’ve been meeting regularly with our team and with artists to explore the collections, share ideas, and uncover stories that connect heritage with food and community life.
Alongside them, our Young Curators, supported through annual summer schools with Rochdale Youth Service as part of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, bring fresh energy and creativity to the project.
What They’re Doing
Our Community Curators aren’t just contributors – they’re co-creators. In their sessions, they:
- Dive into the museum’s collections to spark new conversations and connections.
- Work hands-on with artists to shape how The Dining Room will look, feel, and evolve.
- Share their own stories and experiences, ensuring the project reflects the communities of Rochdale.
Through their insight and creativity, the Dining Room is becoming a dynamic space that changes and grows, rooted in the voices of the people who call Rochdale home.
Stay tuned to our blog for updates from the curators themselves, behind-the-scenes glimpses of their sessions, and the exciting progress we’re making together.
Community Curator Blog