Exploring Musea Animalia: How Leanne Clydesdale is Rethinking Animals in Museums
What role do museums play in how we view the animal world? For centuries, museums have been spaces of wonder, but historically, they have also played a role in the oppression of animals through lenses of colonialism and speciesism. From the taxidermied bodies on display to the narratives written on the curation placards, the way animal stories are told matters deeply.
In her compelling blog series, Musea Animalia, writer and researcher Leanne Clydesdale tackles these complex themes head-on. She explores how museums can radically improve our relationships with animals by shifting toward a de-dominating and anti-speciesist lens.
Leanne’s writing dives into how museum storytelling impacts our empathy toward animals, engages openly with animal rights topics in cultural spaces, and introduces two core pillars of her work:
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De-domination Theory: Unpacking and dismantling the power structures embedded in how animals have historically been exhibited and viewed.
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Animal Muses: A unique feature where Leanne introduces us to specific animals represented in museums, using a blend of research, observation, and imagination to rebuild and enrich the stories behind their interpretation.
An Open Invitation to Dialogue Leanne is upfront about her perspective: her writing carries a clear bias toward helping animals. However, Musea Animalia is ultimately a space for curiosity, community, and growth. Leanne warmly encourages and welcomes different mindsets and perspectives, aiming to foster a respectful, open dialogue with all readers.
Whether you are a museum enthusiast, an animal advocate, or simply curious about how history and storytelling intersect, Leanne’s work offers a fresh, eye-opening perspective.
👉 Discover her writing and subscribe to the journey here.
Nellie The Elephant in our Natural Histories Room on the Ground Floor.
