What's in a name: What is it that we interpreters do?

For most people in the street, what interpreters do is translate between languages. In an art or science museum, we may be referred to as ' facilitators’ or ’mediators’. We may fare better in national parks, but even then, we may be seen as ’tourist guides’. Today, some colleagues claim we are redundant since everybody interprets in reality all the time, or they suggest we only ’present’ what real experts interpret. Who is right? Could or should we clarify or better name what we do?

Our presenter, Manuel Gándara, holds a doctorate in anthropology, design and new technologies. He introduced the interpretation of cultural heritage in Mexico at museums and archaeological sites using digital technologies. As Professor of Museum Studies (INAH), he also promotes it as a legitimate academic field. He recently received a lifetime achievement award for his work on the conservation of cultural heritage.

Originally presented live in May 2025 as part of the 2025 Global Excellence in Heritage Interpretation Webinar Series.