This is Archaeology - Open Doors and Open Minds: Why Archaeology is Good for People, and Why People Are Good for Archaeology
As a leading heritage organisation, Wessex Archaeology has a deep commitment to working alongside the public to explore how archaeology can bring people together, strengthen communities, and even bring about positive societal change.
In this talk, Arran Johnson and Natasha Bramall will reflect on their respective journeys into heritage careers and explore why archaeology can be such a transformative force for good. The lecture will also explore how key concepts such as communality, placemaking, and inclusive practice can make archaeology feel relevant and appealing to audiences that haven’t previously engaged with, or even felt excluded from, the discipline.
Arran and Natasha will offer practical examples of how sensitive, co-created adaptations to traditional methodologies have allowed intersecting barriers to participation to be considered, understood and addressed. They will also discuss enduring challenges, emerging possibilities, and how partnership working leads to more impactful outcomes in commercial archaeology engagement projects, social prescribing, and community initiatives.
The talk will conclude with thoughts on where the archaeology and wellbeing movement goes next, how projects can reach beyond established audiences, and the increasing role archaeology can play in tackling specific root causes of inequality, injustice, and social isolation.
Speakers
Arran Johnson - As Senior Heritage Inclusion and Engagement Officer at Wessex Archaeology, Arran is responsible for the development of programmes that inspire and empower diverse communities to actively engage with the past. Arran uses his two decades of experience, and enduring passion for archaeology to make participation in heritage activities as inspiring, impactful, and enjoyable as can be.
Natasha Bramall - Natasha is the Wessex Archaeology Engagement & Inclusion Coordinator for the north of the UK and works to develop relationships with educational organisations and community groups, preparing workshops and resources, delivering activities, and coordinating placements. Natasha is motivated by creating equal opportunities for all to engage with archaeology and our heritage.
This talk was recorded as part of the CBA's This Is Archaeology free online lecture series during the 2025 Festival of Archaeology. Find out more about upcoming talks on the CBA website.
