Museums can help foster a sense of belonging

A painting seen at 10 is different at 20, and learning the cultural and historical context of where you are is a powerful tool for integration, writes Arpita Chowdhury

Patrick O'Donovan, minister for tourism, culture, arts, gaeltacht, sport and media (left) with Dr Caroline Campbell, director of the National Gallery of Ireland, viewing Picasso's 'Bust of a Woman with a Blue Hat'. The current exhibition 'Picasso from the Studio' at the National Gallery is providing free entry every Wednesday morning, presenting yet another opportunity to experience rare works up close without much of a hassle. File photo: Naoise Culhane

In an age when travel snapshots dominate our social feeds, the idea of cultural exploration has slowly become associated with airports and passport stamps. We chase museums and galleries across the world but often overlook the cultural spaces that exist a short bus ride away. 

During the holiday season, when time opens up and routine pauses, there is a strong case to make for turning inward rather than outward. Local museums and galleries are not just for visitors. They are vital civic spaces where young people can connect with their country’s story, identity and creative heritage.