Abstract
Communicating archaeology to non-expert audiences can convey the role and value of the discipline, implant respect for heritage, and connect descendant communities to their past. A challenge facing archaeology communicators is to translate complex ideas while retaining their richness and maximizing audience engagement. This article discusses how archaeologists can effectively communicate with non-experts using narrative and visual tools. We provide a communication strategy and three case studies from North America. The examples include the packaging of archaeological theory in the shape of mystery novels for student consumption; the use of artwork to anchor archaeological narratives in public outreach; and, the use of historical fiction to reformat archaeological content for Indigenous communities. We conclude with a discussion of outreach capacities and some of the risks and rewards of professional interactions with non-archaeologists.
Rights and Access Note
There are no conflicts of interest or copyright issues. The paper contains images that appear in other publications but permissions for reproduction have all been secured.
Recommended Citation
Kristensen, Todd J.; Henry, Meigan; Brownlee, Kevin; Praetzellis, Adrian; and Sitchon, Myra
2020
GRAND CHALLENGE No. 5: COMMUNICATING ARCHAEOLOGY Outreach and Narratives in Professional Practice.
Journal of Archaeology and Education 4
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/jae/vol4/iss3/6
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