On July 16th, 2025, the British Omani Society hosted a panel discussion in partnership with the British Museum, spotlighting the evolving relationship between UK and Omani museums, exploring how international collaboration can shape the future of cultural institutions.
Central to the conversation was Nabhan Al Barwani, Head of Collections at the Oman Across Ages Museum (OAAM), who shared his experience as a fellow in the British Museum’s International Training Programme (ITP), participation of which was facilitated by a BOS grant. His reflections on collection care, and curatorial practice underscored the transformative impact of cross-cultural learning. Claire Messenger, Manager of the ITP, offered valuable insights into the programme’s role in cultivating a global network of museum professionals, connecting 60 countries through the 19 years of the programme. Zeina Klink-Hoppe, Former Curator for the Modern Middle East at the British Museum, emphasized the importance of storytelling and expressed a keen interest in exploring interregional connections.
The panel was showcased an enduring partnership between the British Museum and Omani institutions. From Mouza Al-Wardi’s early participation in the ITP in 2013 to recent collaborations like the “Women Silversmiths from Oman” exhibition, the relationship has grown into a valued exchange of knowledge, skills, and cultural understanding.
The timing of the panel was especially poignant, as OAAM had just been awarded the 2025 International Chapter Award for Public Architecture by the Australian Institute of Architects. This global recognition underscores the museum’s role not only as a cultural landmark in Oman but also as a symbol of architectural excellence and international collaboration.
As Oman continues to invest in its museum sector, events like this reaffirm the power of dialogue in shaping inclusive and globally connected cultural spaces.
Watch the recording below:
Read more about the ITP here.
It is with fondness and admiration that we remember Colonel Peter Walton WKhM, a founder and valued member of the British-Omani Society. Read full story
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