APPLIED CAPSTONE PROJECT PROPOSAL

STUDENT: Dean Shipman

ADVISOR: Professor Talcott

PROGRAM: Master of Arts in Global Communications

DATE: February 6, 2026

1. OFFICIAL TITLE

Heritage AI: Strategy for Global Restitution

2. OUTLINE / ABSTRACT

Working Title: Bridging the Gap: A Business Proposal for an AI-Powered Cataloging and Restitution Diplomacy Firm

Statement of the Issue:

The global cultural heritage sector is currently defined by a “dual crisis.” As documented in the 2018 Sarr-Savoy report, an estimated 9095% of sub-Saharan Africas material cultural heritage remains in European museums. Simultaneously, a logistical backlog persists: a 2017 survey found that European heritage institutions have only cataloged approximately 58% of their collections in a database. This lack of digital infrastructure and physical access actively prevents the “new relational ethics” and “re-socialization” of objects required for meaningful restitution.

Project Goal and Deliverable:

This 6-credit Applied Capstone Project bridges academic theory and real-world application by developing a Strategic Business Proposal for “Heritage AI Solutions.” The deliverable is a comprehensive plan formatted to serve as a primary funding application for Horizon Europe 2025 (specifically under Cluster 2: Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society).

Methodology and Proposed Services:

The project consists of a professional deliverable (the Business Proposal) justified by a 2025 page written report. This report includes a 10-page Pre-Project Plan (theoretical/strategic justification) and a 10-page Post-Reflective analysis (critical evaluation of ethical and political implications). The firm provides four core services:

1. AI-Powered Cataloging & Digitization: Using machine learning for rapid metadata generation and collection visibility.
2. Digital Access & “Virtual Repatriation”: Creating high-fidelity virtual museum experiences for communities of origin.
3. Restitution & Diplomatic Consulting: Navigating the legal and logistical frameworks of physical return (e.g., UNIDROIT 1995).
4. Cultural Heritage Curation Consulting: Expert guidance for museums to decolonize exhibition narratives and engage in co-curation with source communities.