Our Story

Back in October 2023, nine MA Museum and Artefact Studies students began work on this exhibition. The exhibition had no name, no collections to display, and only a loose concept. The single goal we had at that point was to ensure it would inform the public about the ongoing Norman Chapel Project.

With very few collections objects available until December 2023, we spent our time focusing on the intangible elements of the exhibition; many months were spent trying to pinpoint exactly why the Norman Chapel Project is important, and who this project is for. Ultimately, if you are reading this, the exhibition is for you!

Our ideas for this exhibition have changed over the course of this project, but a key aspect has always been to use local knowledge and expertise, which has been an instrumental aspect of the Castle’s 950-year history. Working with staff at Durham Castle, and the construction team spearheading the Norman Chapel Project made this aim a reality. In addition to highlighting the importance of the conservation work, we are also excited to display living history - recently excavated objects that have not been seen by human eyes for hundreds of years will reveal stories of previous lives at the Castle.

As well as the physical exhibition lining the Tunstall Gallery’s walls, the exhibition is comprised of numerous other parts. Members of the group have been working in smaller teams to complete the wide variety of content you see across this exhibition. From online games to illustrations, hours of video editing to text translations, much more has gone into this exhibition than may appear at first glance. 

We are extremely proud of this exhibition, and hope you have enjoyed it as much as we have.