Available to hire
I am Lois Emma Harkin, a museum and heritage professional focused on digital engagement, audience development, and community-led programming. I develop accessible, story-driven content across platforms and translate historical narratives into engaging experiences for diverse audiences.
Throughout my work at Kirkleatham Museum, The Tess Group, and in freelance roles, I have led a wide range of projects—from collections management and emergency salvage planning to education outreach and event programming—always prioritising inclusion, collaboration, and high-quality visitor experiences.
Experience Level
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Beginner
Beginner
Language
English
Fluent
Work Experience
Freelance Digital Engagement Planner at Self-employed / Freelance
January 1, 2024 - January 1, 2024Developed and delivered a strategic digital engagement plan aligned with curatorial and audience development goals. Created accessible, story-driven content across multiple platforms, translating historical narratives into engaging digital formats. Supported exhibition projects through innovative digital storytelling and community-led campaigns. Evaluated audience engagement using data analytics to inform ongoing digital strategy. Provided digital training for staff and volunteers. Contributed to grant reporting through digital impact measurement. Ensured content reflected inclusive values and sector best practice. Developed audience-focused programming informed by digital engagement insights. Built a robust network of contacts to identify and prioritise community engagement opportunities.
Front of House at The Tess Group (Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar)
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2022Planned and coordinated events and engagement activities, aligning with audience development strategies. Handled museum documentation, research, and exhibition work. Collaborated with the Learning and Access Officer to develop and deliver thematic, educational event programs. Focused on attracting diverse audiences and ensuring inclusivity in programming. Prioritised community relationship-building, making communities feel welcome and integral to the museum's narrative. Partnered with local heritage and art organisations to enhance learning and collection-focused activities. Led planning, organisation, and coordination of artistic and cultural education workshops and community engagement projects. Fostered a positive, collaborative environment for staff and volunteers. Delivered excellent customer service, supported exhibition spaces, and maintained building and collections.
Collections Officer - Interpretation and Exhibition Design at Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar
January 1, 2025 - January 1, 2025Developed and delivered a strategic digital engagement plan aligned with curatorial and audience development goals. Created accessible, story-driven content across multiple platforms, translating historical narratives into engaging digital formats. Supported exhibition projects through innovative digital storytelling and community-led campaigns. Evaluated audience engagement using data analytics to inform ongoing digital strategy. Provided digital training for staff and volunteers. Contributed to grant reporting through digital impact measurement. Ensured content reflected inclusive values and sector best practices. Planned, organized and coordinated activities for 30,000 objects; daily operations and exhibitions; built relationships with communities and partners.
Freelance Digital Engagement Specialist at Self-Employed / Freelance
January 1, 2024 - January 1, 2024Developed and delivered a strategic digital engagement plan aligned with curatorial and audience development goals. Created accessible, story-driven content across multiple platforms, translating historical narratives into engaging digital formats. Supported exhibition projects through innovative digital storytelling and community-led campaigns. Evaluated audience engagement using data analytics to inform ongoing digital strategy. Provided digital training for staff and volunteers. Contributed to grant reporting through digital impact measurement. Ensured all content reflected inclusive values and sector best practices. Developed audience-focused programming informed by digital engagement insights.
Collections and Engagement Officer at Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar
December 31, 2022 - December 31, 2022Managed collection movement and accessibility, supported exhibitions and learning programs, and contributed to conservation and interpretation strategies. Collaborated with education and visitor experience teams to deliver engaging, inclusive displays, and contributed to emergency salvage planning and adherence to Collections Management Instruction.
Cultural Learning and Participation Officer at The Tess Group
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2022Planned and coordinated events and engagement activities aligned with audience development strategies. Led museum documentation, research and exhibition work; collaborated with the Learning and Access Officer to develop and deliver thematic, educational events. Focused on attracting diverse audiences and ensuring inclusion in programming. Built community relationships and partnered with local heritage and arts organisations to enhance learning and activities.
Front of House at Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2021Planned and coordinated events and engagement activities, aligning with audience development strategies. Handled museum documentation, research and exhibition work. Collaborated with the Learning and Access Officer to develop and deliver thematic, educational events. Focused on attracting diverse audiences and ensuring inclusion in programming. Built community relationships and supported learning and heritage workshops.
Education
Master of Arts at Norwich University of the Arts
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2022Bachelor of Arts at University of Lincoln, Fine Art
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2020Extended Diploma Level 3 at The Northern School of Art
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2017GCSEs at Redcar Academy
January 1, 2009 - January 1, 2014Master of Arts at Norwich University of the Arts
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2022Bachelor of Arts at The Northern School of Art
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2020Extended Diploma Level Three in Fine Art at The Northern School of Art
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2017GCSEs at Redcar Academy
January 1, 2009 - January 1, 2014Qualifications
Industry Experience
Media & Entertainment, Education, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services, Government
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