Explore extraordinary objects and captivating curios at Museum of Brisbane’s latest exhibition, Precious
Have you ever cobbled together your own collection? Most of us have at one point or another, even if they were as simple as a childhood accumulation of shiny rocks or Pokémon cards. Others, however, take it to the next level. Museum of Brisbane’s latest major exhibition Precious showcases the spoils of 30 remarkable collections hidden within suburban homes and buildings across Brisbane. From model ships to Queensland Rugby League memorabilia, wind-up tin toys to rare band posters, it’s a fascinating peek into more than 3000 precious objects that will pique the curiosity and imagination of all visitors.
Honouring the dedication and expertise of enthusiastic amateurs and professional collectors alike, the intriguing items featured in Precious are as diverse as the collectors themselves, all of whom are tied to Brisbane through heart or home. More than mere curiosities, these collections reveal intriguing stories of culture, place, family and tradition, travel, and trade.
Objects from some of the city’s most fascinating institutions such as the Embroiders’ Guild, Queensland Maritime Museum and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia sit alongside personal collections featuring antique beaded purses, self-pouring teapots, an extraordinary selection of ‘Aboriginalia’ from the personal collection of artist Tony Albert, as well as remarkable pieces from Museum of Brisbane’s own prized collections.
“This is an exhibition of objects, designed to astound visitors of all kinds through its sheer scale and variety,” says exhibition curator, Dr Sarah Engledow. “But it’s really an exhibition about people and the stories told through the objects they seek out and cherish. Precious marks the first time these collections have been brought together and it has been a fascinating process of discovery to curate this show.”
Museum of Brisbane CEO and director Zoe Graham says that Precious celebrates the deeply personal nature of collecting and reminds us of the fundamental interest humans have in seeking out and caring for objects.
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“This exhibition invites us to reflect on the things we hold dear, the memories we preserve through objects, and the excitement of discovering something new,” she says. “It’s a testament to how objects, while often seemingly ordinary, can hold extraordinary meaning in the lives of those who collect them. Each object on display tells a unique story, from the cherished finds in local homes to the rare treasures that speak to a collector’s dedication and passion.
“We are proud to bring these treasures into the spotlight for locals and visitors alike to explore in this astounding exhibition.”
Precious opens to the public on Wednesday April 2. For more information about the exhibition, head to the Museum of Brisbane website.