The pop cultural materialisation of sound in the museum

Sound plays a pivotal role in shaping the pop cultural identity of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as demonstrated by the Ruhr Museum's innovative use of auditory elements within the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex. This study reveals how sound—whether through industrial noise, music, or ambient textures—materializes pop culture narratives, creating an immersive experience that transcends traditional museum exhibits. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, analyzing visitor responses and curatorial strategies to dissect how auditory design influences cultural memory and perception. By focusing on Zollverein's repurposed coal washing plant, the study highlights the potential of soundscapes in preserving industrial heritage while engaging contemporary audiences.

Dreckmann, K. (2017). The pop cultural materialisation of sound in the museum. Sound Studies, 3(1), 88–90. https://doi.org/10.1080/20551940.2017.1310522