The 2012 Harry Butler Lecture Series: In the Wild West will conclude with an explanation of why museums are more important to us now than ever before at the Western Australian Maritime Museum on Thursday 29 November.
‘Critical collections: why museum collections matter’ presented by WA Museum chief executive officer Alec Coles will reveal why museum collections continue to be relevant despite the digital age.
“In the digital age, it has been claimed collections are no longer important: after all, surely we can find what we are looking for on the Web? I could not disagree more!” Mr Coles said.
“In a world where authenticity is at a premium, collections are a museum’s unique product and museums and their collections have never been more relevant.”
Mr Coles said while online and digital representations are important there is still something special about stepping in to and experiencing a museum.
“Good public museums reflect, embrace and challenge communities. Through the power of collections, they help us determine our place in the world and understand ourselves and each other.
“The WA Museum is committed to continuing to provide museums that are relevant to, and reflective of, the whole Western Australian community – and collections play an integral part in that.”
Entry to the lecture is by gold coin donation, with bookings essential online at www.museum.wa.gov.au/inthewildwest or by calling 9212 3813.
The Harry Butler lecture series: In the Wild West is proudly presented by the WA Museum in partnership with Chevron Australia. The series showcases the work of Museum scientists, curators and associates in the areas of natural and social sciences.
LECTURE: ‘Critical collections: why museum collections matter’
WHEN: Thursday 29 November, 6pm
WHERE: Western Australian Maritime Museum, Victoria Quay, Fremantle
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: museum.wa.gov.au/inthewildwest
COST: Gold coin donation
Media contact:
Niki Comparti, Western Australian Museum
6552 7805, niki.comparti@museum.wa.gov.au
