Using the Reciprocal Research Network for both Indigenous and Western Cultural Provenance Standards

Abstract

What are the potential benefits of digital networks and databases that collect information from different sources – and what are their disadvantages? My contribution details the Research Reciprocal Network (RRN) and its approach to sourcing object provenance. The RRN is a collaborative online database created by the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) in Vancouver, Canada, through the »A Partnership of Peoples« project. The U’mista Cultural Centre is one of four co-developers of this groundbreaking online database. Focused on Northwest Coast museum collections, this research website supports the exchange of information from traditional knowledge keepers and academics alike. Users can share information, create discussions, collaboratively write documents, or upload files regarding specific objects from any particular partner holding institute. This unique platform facilitates collaboration and creates easy access to information to a greater audience, benefiting museum collections and the artefacts’ communities of origin. Provenance is especially important when speaking about collections of the Pacific Northwest Coast of British Columbia; mainly because of the way many of these artefacts have been taken and dispersed around the world. The RRN is a great way to learn multiple histories of objects from many contributors, but what are the pros and cons of this platform?