It’s not often a 10th century Viking sword is on display in Tasmania, let alone on show with a pair of wasps dressed up as bride and groom.
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However, an eclectic array of items from private collectors around Australia has been unearthed for an upcoming StGiles exhibition.
The exhibition will showcase 80 items over 80 days to celebrate StGiles’ 80th birthday at the Queen Victoria Museum in Inveresk later this month.
StGiles’ Victoria Bayes said the symmetry was a “finely executed accident”.
The exhibition was StGiles’ way of giving back to the community after 80 years of support, Mrs Bayes said.
The idea for the exhibition started with a suggestion from historian Dr Tom Gunn, who is also involved in StGiles I-Know Trivia, about two years ago.
Dr Gunn suggested StGiles could hold an exhibition showcasing art hidden from public view.
“Knock on doors, you’d be surprised at who’s got what,” he said.
StGiles’ Danielle Blewett said it was incredible how many items were offered for loan after collectors were approached.
The organisation also received cold calls from people offering their different items, Ms Blewett said.
“The exhibition is exceptional and quite extraordinary and is for the curious of all ages with particular appeal to children.”
About 30 private collectors dug through their collections to find quirky, beautiful or interesting items for the exhibition, she said.
Academy Gallery director Dr Malcom Bywaters volunteered to create a glorious narrative of the collection, Ms Blewett said.
“Malcom was early in his very genuine enthusiasm for the Mystery Walls concept and brings immense talent and very positive creative energy to the project’.”
Economist Saul Eslake will reveal Mystery Walls on March 17.
The afternoon event will include short performance Same But Different by Scotch Oakburn College drama students and high tea with sparkling wine.
Tickets are available for $44 by contacting StGiles on society@stgiles.org.au or 6345 7333.
Tess Brunton
I recently returned from across the ditch where I worked at New Zealand Fairfax paper The Timaru Herald and developed a love of mountains. Originally I'm a mainlander from an area known for cheese, the Bega Valley, who also dabbled in radio at ABC RCAFF before finding a place in newspapers. I can often be found hiking, caving or climbing when I'm not cursing at my work computer or technology in general.
I recently returned from across the ditch where I worked at New Zealand Fairfax paper The Timaru Herald and developed a love of mountains. Originally I'm a mainlander from an area known for cheese, the Bega Valley, who also dabbled in radio at ABC RCAFF before finding a place in newspapers. I can often be found hiking, caving or climbing when I'm not cursing at my work computer or technology in general.
