It is based on the idea that humans love to see interesting objects, sort them, identify them, and show them off. For children, a beginning collection often takes shape with shells, or stamps, or books, stuffed animals. Children may build models or create whole worlds with their dolls. As we grow older, our collections may become more sophisticated. Or they may become more whimsical.
Many creative people keep collections and personal treasures in their own homes.
Others may share their artifacts in a public space. Museums, both public and private, give us the shared experience of focus and awe for special collections and juxtapositions of interesting objects. A museum may be created for a short duration or to last for years and years. As we begin our exploration of museums as a project for learning, we will try to expand and enrich our understanding of what museums can do to increase our creative thinking, to enrich lifelong learning, and to reflect on historical values and perspectives. Museums help us define further the legacies of the human brain and soul.