Helena Wangefelt Ström

Helena Wangefelt Ström is a Senior Lecturer in Museum and Heritage Studies at Uppsala University, Sweden. She holds a PhD in Museology (2022) from Umeå University and a Master’s in History of Ideas and Science (2011) from Uppsala University. Her research bridges sacredness and heritage, focusing on early modern European religious artefacts, their musealization, and contemporary implications.

• Education:
  • PhD in Museology, Umeå University (2022)
  • Master’s in History of Ideas and Science, Uppsala University (2011)

Her work explores heritage politics, religious controversy, early modern history, museums and sacred objects, and Italian-Scandinavian cultural exchanges. Articles highlight her analysis of how religious artefacts transition between sacredness and heritage, often through hybrid identities and secular narratives. She investigates the role of display practices in mediating these transitions and their impact on post-secular societies.

Helena has received prestigious awards including the C M Lerici scholarship, support from the Swedish Institute in Rome, and funding from the Royal Swedish Academy of Letters, History and Antiquities. She co-founded international research groups EMoDiR and RCHG, organizing workshops and seminars across Europe. Her current role involves leading Uppsala University’s master’s program in ALM studies.