Museum Curator

Welcome to our new staff spotlight section which highlights the many services delivered by Cork City Council on a daily basis. 

In this edition of our staff spotlight, you'll get to know our Museum Curator, Daniel Breen. 

Tell us about your job?

I am Curator of Cork Public Museum. I am responsible for the care and preservation of about c80,000 objects, the upkeep and maintenance of three buildings, as well overseeing our exhibitions, events and other out-reach activities. I am also the line-manager of a great team of 8 people, all who play their part in ensuring Cork Public Museum remains an important part of Cork’s cultural offerings.

How did you end up working as the Museum Curator for Cork City Council?

While undertaking an MA in European Historical Archaeology in Sheffield University, I had to undertake a placement as part of the course. As I was going to be coming home to Cork for the summer to write my thesis, I wrote to the museum’s previous curator, Stella Cherry to see if she could facilitate my placement. Somehow, this initial 4-week stint has rolled into a 24-year old career.

What does a typical day involve?

Thankfully, there are no typical days. As my job involves a nice mix of paperwork, handling and researching collections, as well engaging with the public, there is rarely a dull moment. The one constant in all my working days is tea.

What is your favourite part of your job?

Being able to work closely with our collections. The stories and histories they tell is so fascinating to me that I really enjoy learning about the people and events that shaped Cork’s past.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Learn to play the drums.