Artifacts as Art?

I attended the Slave Trade exhibition at Lancaster’s central museum this afternoon. I have always been interested in 18th and 19th century history, but was particularly drawn to the artifacts that had been recovered and preserved. It made me look at these as a form of art. Could I find artifacts relating to class divisions and incorporate them into my artwork? Recently, I have certainly found myself thinking more about art installations. This is something I would love to explore further.