‘FAKE NEWS?’ | PRESS RELEASE

A new exhibition from PK Porthcurno uncovers the role of misinformation through history and into the digital age.

Now open at PK Porthcurno, Museum of Global Communications: Fake News? is a vibrant, fun exploration of the tricky, timely subject of misinformation. This thought-provoking, cross-generational exhibition explores the use of propaganda, disinformation and fake news from ancient times to the present day, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking to help us navigate today’s information-rich world.

Combining historical material with current debate and playful interactives, Fake News? encourages visitors to question what is true, what is fake, and how to tell the difference.

Visitors can explore the role of misinformation across the centuries, looking at propaganda and how powerful narratives have been constructed and weaponised throughout history using the information technology of the time. Next, they explore the digital age including how algorithms work, the role of influencers and the rise of Artificial Intelligence which has taken misinformation to a whole new level. The exhibition brings together original historical examples with newly commissioned animation and illustrations by artist Syd Murphy.

For families, the exhibition is accompanied by the S.N.I.F.F Trail in which visitors join our trusty bloodhound guide, Ernest Smellingway, to sniff out fact from fiction. Earnest has a nose for the truth and leads visitors on a playful, family-friendly journey designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages stretching across the whole museum.

Fake News? Is commissioned by Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, as part of their Making Sense of Media programme. The exhibition and interactive museum trail run until mid-2027.

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Quotes attributable:

“The subject of this exhibition could not be more relevant or important. Everywhere we look it seems we are bombarded with misinformation or reading stories about ‘fake news’. We can end up feeling powerless and not knowing what or who to believe. But this isn’t a new problem, and our exhibition shows that the spread of misinformation has been used since ancient times to wield power and influence. Fake News? encourages us to challenge the myths and take back control through awareness, curiosity and asking the right questions”

Julia Twomlow, PK Porthcurno CEO and Creative Director

“Ofcom is delighted to be working with PK Porthcurno. Museums are trusted spaces where all-age learning already takes place and are therefore ideal locations to develop media literacy skills. We’re keen to understand how visitors of all ages and stages learn more about mis and disinformation, online content and information sources. This knowledge should help them build the confidence to navigate content safely and flourish online. Media literacy is everyone’s business and we’re keen to see what impact the displays, trails and outreach from the team at PK Porthcurno has.”

Claire Levens, OFCOM Head of Media Literacy Policy