Media announcements

February

TOP DESIGN EXPERTS FEATURE IN 2019 SYDNEY DESIGN FESTIVAL

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Leading design experts from Australia and around the world have been announced for the Sydney Design Festival, running from 1 – 10 March 2019 across Sydney.

Curated and produced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), this year’s festival theme Accessing Design challenges designers to broaden the definition of design and collaborate across disciplines and cultural divides.

With 138 events presented by over 100 partners, the 2019 Festival offers 10 days of tours, workshops, exhibitions, panel discussions, markets, open studios, podcasts, keynote presentations, installations and symposiums.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Chief Executive, Lisa Havilah said “Sydney Design Festival has been running for over 20 years and has played a key role in the evolution of design practice in Australia and across the world. It is the role of festivals such as this to move industry conversations and connections forward. We look forward to learning from, and sharing with, the industry’s leading designers.”

Festival Highlights

Industry thought leaders from the disciplines of the built environment, arts and culture will gather at Hassell Sydney Studio on 3 March for a panel discussion on Places people love: Arts & Built Environment, mediated by Katrina Strickland.

In celebration of the newly opened Sydney exhibition celebrating his career of 25 years, Akira Isogawa will be interviewed in an In Conversation at the Powerhouse Museum on 4 March.

The Festival will open on 1 March with a talk by prize-winning architect Ana Luisa Soares from Fala Atelier. Presented in partnership with School of Architecture, University of Queensland, Methodic Optimism: fala atelier will provide insight into the Portuguese studio’s intuitive and speculative architecture practice.

Celebrate International Women’s Day on 8 March with a presentation by festival keynote speaker Rachel Wingfield of Loop.pH. As the co-founder of the London studio, Rachel Wingfield’s work explores the role of art and design in public spaces. This program is generously supported by the British Council.

Furniture and lighting designer Duncan Meerding will share his creative practice and experience as a blind design practitioner in Alternative Sensory World: In Conversation with Duncan Meerding on 5 March at the Powerhouse Museum, presented in collaboration with Accessible Arts.

Sibling Architecture tackles the issue of aged care and housing in New Agency: Owning Your Future. Supported by The School of Architecture, Design and Planning, The University of Sydney, this participatory research project will run daily throughout the festival at Tin Sheds Gallery.

The role of design in issues of accessibility will be discussed at Inclusivity or exclusivity? The role of design in an ever-changing world, presented by Australian Graphic Design Association (AGDA) on 6 March at the Powerhouse Museum.

The festival teams up with Sydney cinema favourite Golden Age Cinema to present the documentary cult classic Jiro Dreams of Sushi on 6 March.

Where will our recycling go in the future, now that China has ceased the intake of Australia’s recycling? General Assembly poses solutions to this national issue in Design in Motion: Sustainable Solutions on 7 March at the Powerhouse Museum.

How does a designer know when their work is finished? Is it ever finished? Join a panel of industry practitioners to discuss the challenges and rewards of life as a designer in I’ll Be Happy When on 7 March at Design By Them Showroom.

Continuing the celebration of women in design, MAAS Indigenous Design Symposium runs at the Sydney Observatory from 9-10 March. Guest presenters will invite participants to learn about indigenous design practices 60,000 years in the making.

Mid 20th-century design enthusiasts will gather at Rose Seidler House on 9 March for Seidler Screenings: Architecture, film and music presented by Sydney Living Museums, to view the Sydney premiere of Columbus – a new feature film about Modernist Architecture, love and house museums by Korean-American film-maker Kogonada.

Parramatta Artist Studios will host a collective making event over lunch on 9 March when The Finishing School Writers Collective and WeAve Parramatta explore artistic patterns and finger knitting in The Long Table: Weaving Stories.

During the festival Western Sydney University will launch T1-Commons, responding to demand for an online platform that connects creative practitioners in Western Sydney to share work, events and communities.

Exhibitions

Australian Design Centre will present a major exhibition of Australian artists, designers and architects working with steel in Steel: Art Design Architecture exhibition from 1 – 10 March.

Exhibition After Technology at UTS Gallery explores the intersection of technology and art, featuring artists such as Patricia Piccinini, Julie Rrap and Grant Stevens.

The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre will showcase the uniquely Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural practice of making rare and delicate shell necklaces throughout the festival in the exhibition kanalaritja: An Unbroken String.

Addressing the issue of accessibility for audiences, University NSW Art & Design will present its exhibition Ideas Intersecting: Innovation and Design in the physical space of The Black Box but also online.

Sydney-based American photographer Jon Setter will present his work in architectural and urban environments photography in Jon Setter: The Urban Text at Koskela from 2-10 March.

The best design projects from 2018 HSC graduates will be on display at Shape 2018, opening at the Powerhouse Museum on 22 February and featuring inventions from the HSC subjects of Design and Technology, Textiles and Design and Industrial Technology.

Itineraries

Design enthusiasts can use one of fifteen festival itineraries to get the most out of their festival. Itineraries are built around subject area with packages such as Women In Design, Indigenous Design, Shaping the Future, Design, Access and Inclusion and Go West catering to the interests of all festival-goers.

Installations

MAAS Research Fellow Ollie Bown has drawn upon the Museum’s MasterTouch collection to create Spiral and the Mechanical Music Factory; a musical installation that reflects mechanical music history through modern music technology. This interactive installation will open on 1 March 2019 at the Powerhouse Museum.

Now in its second year, MAAS Architecture Commission has awarded Perth and Berlin based architecture firm Penhale & Winter the prize for the design of the 2019 architecture installation. Agora will be on display on the forecourt of the Powerhouse Museum from 1 – 10 March.

Sydney Design Festival
1 – 10 March 2019
www.sydneydesign.com.au

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Rae Begley, ARTICULATE. T: 0419 890 888 E: rae@articulatepr.com.au
Images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/lfyf82wzalti60v/AAAM5LDSBcN8Kvl9_eX9WO_qa?dl=0

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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December

New leadership to drive MAAS’ communications and external affairs

President of the MAAS Board of Trustees, Professor Barney Glover has welcomed the appointment of Siobhan Rennie into the role of Director of Communications and External Affairs at the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS).

“Siobhan Rennie is an outstanding choice to lead MAAS’ communications, development and audience insights teams during this time of great change and opportunity for the museum,” said Professor Glover.

“As we head towards the development of MAAS’ new flagship site in Parramatta, Siobhan will lead MAAS’ communications and external affairs by driving the strategic direction of the museum in all facets of communications, marketing, strategic partnerships, philanthropy, audience insights and business development,” said Professor Glover.

Ms Rennie joins MAAS with over 18 years of global communications, media and public relations experience working with startups, government, finance, media and advertising.

Her extensive experience in communications and public relations has made Ms Rennie a trusted voice in the field. She has managed the reputations of Prime Ministers, Presidents and CEOs, orchestrated communications during natural disasters and delivered communications for multiple large-scale rebrands. Notably, Ms Rennie led the media relations team for the 2014 G20 in Australia and prior to that was Director of Media and Communications for the National Plan for School Improvement (Gonski Review).

Ms Rennie said she was delighted to be joining the museum during this new chapter for the cultural institution.

“I’m really excited to be joining MAAS at such a pivotal point in the museum’s evolution,” said Ms Rennie. “Founded on a belief that a successful, more culturally diverse, innovative society is based on the creative use of knowledge, MAAS is internationally renowned for the calibre of its collection and has a huge number of exciting opportunities at its fingertips.”

“I can’t wait to work with the team, driving engagement, reputation, creativity, knowledge, fun and really out of this world experiences as MAAS embarks on its expansion into a new, world-class flagship site in Western Sydney,” added Rennie.

MAAS is Australia’s premier museum of applied arts and sciences. The Museum is custodian to of over 500,000 objects that showcase human innovation and Australian social history. Established in 1879, MAAS is one of Australia’s oldest cultural institutions.

Media contact
Alison Wares: alison.wares@maas.museum M: 0466 331 483

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences 
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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November

SPEND THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS IN A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY

STAR WARS^TM Identities announces School Holiday workshops

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Young Padawans will have much to learn this summer School Holiday at the Powerhouse Museum, with a series of exhilaratingly educational workshops as part of STAR WARS ^TM Identities. Budding Jedi Knights of all ages can stay entertained throughout the school break, with everything from crafting their own droids to creating top motion films with their own characters (17 Dec 2018 – 24 Jan 2019).

STAR WARS^TM Identities: The Exhibition will open at the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney on 16 November 2018 and run until 10 June 2019. Tickets are now on sale for sessions through to the end of February 2019 at ticketek.com.au.

Plus explore the Forces in our world in FREE FOR KIDS daily activities. From air resistance force to muscular force to gravitational force, complete a series of challenges using physics, technology and your ingenuity! Create and prototype a flying creation and test it out in big wind tubes. Move magnets to draw and make your own designs at magnetic tables. Explore tension as you squeeze through our tension walls. 22 Dec – 29 Jan, (Ages 5 – 12).

Book for full day holiday workshops:

• littleBits Droid Inventor: Ever wanted to build your very own R2-D2 or C-3PO? This workshop will introduce kids to innovative design tool littleBits, with easily snap together working lights, switches and buzzers to build their own droids. Kids will also learn about Artificial Intelligence, and what it really means to be a robot. 17 Dec 2018, 7, 17, 24 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm (Ages 7 – 8).

• Star Wars Special Effects: Create your own signature sound effect for a special power of your own! In this workshop, recreate classic special effects using creative cloud and other technologies, and learn how certain sounds are crucial to the identities of their favourite characters. 18 Dec 2018, 3, 10, 14 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm (Ages 11 – 13).

• Craft Wars: Let your inner craft-maker travel to a galaxy far, far away and let their imaginations go wild. Armed with thermoplastics, cutter printers, articulated joints and mechanisms, participants will create their own Star Wars identity from scratch in this exciting workshop. 19 Dec 2018, 3, 7, 16, 21 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm (Ages 8 – 10).

• Cosplay Design Principles: What’s a great character without their own signature item? From lightsabers to personalised emblems, this workshop will guide kids through designing and crafting their own personalized props based on the Star Wars universe. Using thermoplastics and heat guns, participants can take their newly-created designs home with them. 8, 22 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm (Ages 10 – 12).

• Stop Motion Extravaganza: This one-day workshop will guide kids through storyboarding their own film, then bringing it to life using paper, clay, and Star Wars Lego. Learning stop-motion animation techniques popularized by the Wallace and Gromit film series. The skills they gain will be transferrable to any stop animation software, and clay characters can be taken home. 11, 15, 22 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm (Ages 7 – 9).

MEDIA CONTACTS
Amy Owen: amy@originalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0404 977 338
Genvin In: genvin@originalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0449 939 864

Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qh7l9txjvtnai0p/AACxnM69JH8_P19mT-_XGDcya?dl=0

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What STAR WARS TM Identities: The Exhibition
When 16 November 2018 – 10 June 2019
Where Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price $23 Child, $32 Concession, $36 Adult and $95 Family (includes general admission)
Website https://ma.as/starwarsidentities

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
Established in 1879, the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences’ (MAAS) venues include the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre. MAAS is Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences with a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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MAAS Chief Executive announced

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Lisa Havliah has been announced as the incoming Chief Executive of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS).

The announcement was made on the bank of the Parramatta River today by NSW Minister for the Arts Don Harwin.

Ms Havilah will take up the position of Chief Executive on 7 January 2019 to lead MAAS into its next exciting chapter, with planning for the new museum in Parramatta.

Since 2011 Ms Havilah has been the Director of Carriageworks. Under her direction Carriageworks has achieved record growth in visitation and become synonymous with Sydney contemporary art performances, exhibitions and events. Prior to Carriageworks Ms Havilah led Campbelltown Arts Centre, bringing an understanding of Western Sydney arts and culture to her role at MAAS.

“Lisa Havilah has been a champion of NSW cultural life for many years, most recently steering the transformation of Carriageworks into the cultural hub it is today,” said President of the MAAS Board of Trustees, Professor Barney Glover.

“Under Lisa’s helm MAAS will deliver a bold new Museum that extends beyond traditional exhibition spaces to deliver world-class programming and experiences that will engage and excite both existing and new MAAS audiences for generations to come. The MAAS Trust is delighted to welcome Lisa and is certain she will lead the MAAS Parramatta development with her signature passion for the cultural sector and Western Sydney,” said Professor Glover.

Lisa Havilah said “I am honoured to join MAAS at this important stage of the museum’s transformation and look forward to delivering great outcomes for the communities of NSW. I am proud of the extraordinary things that have been achieved with the Board and staff of Carriageworks over the past eight years which has seen it become the fastest growing cultural precinct in Australia.”

NSW Minister for the Arts Don Harwin says Ms Havilah is exceptionally well equipped to guide the future of MAAS during this transformational period.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Lisa to this crucial role. There is no doubt her wealth of experience puts her in a class of her own. MAAS’s future, in particular the move of the Powerhouse Museum requires expert governance – I have total confidence Lisa is the person for the job,” said Mr Harwin.

“With eight years at Carriageworks, six years of experience as Director of Campbelltown Arts Centre and six years at Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, Lisa understands Western Sydney and the vibrant arts and culture sector that is growing daily in the West.

MAAS is Australia’s premier museum of applied arts and sciences. The Museum is custodian to of over 500,000 objects that showcase human innovation and Australian social history.

Established in 1879, MAAS is one of Australia’s oldest cultural institutions. The next chapter at MAAS will embody the Museum’s mission to be a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds, as it develops an iconic new museum in Parramatta. The NSW government has committed $645 million to the realisation of this important cultural infrastructure project, due for completion in 2023.

MEDIA CONTACT: Eli Wallis, MAAS T: 0402 359 016 E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

October 

DISCOVER YOUR STAR WARS™ IDENTITY THIS SUMMER AT THE POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

STAR WARS™ Identities launches in Sydney this November

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Who would you be if you were a character from Star Wars? Are you a Yoda or more of a Darth Vader? Fans of the galactic series will be given the opportunity to discover the forces that shape them and the Star Wars character they most identify with in STAR WARS™ Identities, This interactive adventure into the Star Wars galaxy will premier in Australia at the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney on Friday 16 November, 2018.

STAR WARS Identities is designed for visitors of all ages and uses technology and expertise in the fields of neuropsychology, psychology, and biochemistry, interwoven with a collection of over 200 original artefacts, costumes, and props from the Lucasfilm archives, to lead Star Wars fans on a personal Identity Quest.

Visitors will be invited to explore their own identity and learn about the forces that shape them as they move through a series of interactive stations. Each station will provide insights that help museum guests define a unique Star Wars character that they create and meet at the end of the exhibition. Will your choices lead you on a path to the dark side of the Force? Are you a Wookiee Jedi Knight? Or maybe an Ewok with fighter-pilot skills?

Along the way rare treasures from the Lucasfilm archives and original costumes, props, models and artworks will be on display, giving a behind the scenes look at the movie-making process. There’s BB-8, R2-D2, the Millennium Falcon, Yoda from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back™, Darth Vader’s suit from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi™, plus so much more!

Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS) Director of Curatorial, Collections and Exhibitions, Peter Denham said the exhibition is an opportunity to delve beyond the films and memorabilia.

“STAR WARS Identities celebrates a core focus of ours – the intersection of imagination and technology – and is a wonderful opportunity for generations of fans to share their love of the film franchise through an exciting and interactive exhibition experience. Star Wars is an iconic and enduring cultural phenomenon and we’re incredibly pleased to be the exclusive venue for this Australian premiere exhibition,” Mr Denham said.

The first chance to experience STAR WARS™ Identities will be at MAASive Lates: Galaxies on Thursday 15 November. This special adults-only night will feature space experts and activities, a Zero Gravity Space lab, prizes for the best costumes and an exclusive opportunity to experience the exhibition before it opens to the public.

Developed and produced by X3 Productions in collaboration with Lucasfilm Ltd and the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, the exhibition has been secured exclusively for Sydney by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, in partnership with the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS).

STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition will open at the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney on 16 November 2018 and run until 10 June 2019. Tickets are now on sale for sessions through to the end of February 2019 at ticketek.com.au

MEDIA CONTACTS
Amy Owen: amy@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0404 977 338
Genvin In: genvin@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0449 939 864

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition
When 16 November 2018 – 10 June 2019
Where Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price $23 Child, $32 Concession, $36 Adult and $95 Family (includes general admission)
Website https://ma.as/starwarsidentities
Images https://www.dropbox.com/sh/fv68bsmqm0nrz3f/AAAyuZYf7Io6Wsye5inCgviYa?dl=0

MAASIVE LATES: Galaxies
When: 15 November
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Museum entry free. Exhibition ticketed.

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
Established in 1879, the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences’ (MAAS) venues include the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre. MAAS is Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences with a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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The Ideal Home
1 December 2018 – 24 March 2019
Penrith Regional Gallery | Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences

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Image: Ex De Medici, The Seat of Love and Hate

The Ideal Home exhibition and public programs seeks to explore Australian experiences of home across the past 100 years, encompassing domestic architecture, design, and technology, alongside contemporary social issues which threaten the fabric of our intimate lives: domestic violence, homelessness, housing affordability and the notion of Australia as refuge.

Penrith Regional Gallery (PRG) with partner institution the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences (MAAS) will examine various experiences of home and family life in a new exhibition titled The Ideal Home, on display from 1 December 2018 to 24 March 2019. The Ideal Home will present a history of the 20th century Australian home told through household objects, furniture and design classics from the MAAS Collection.

The exhibition will take over the entire Penrith Regional Gallery site, as well as extending to a satellite exhibition of modernist art and design at MAAS venue the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney, with each space enabling a different consideration of exhibition ideas and themes.

The exhibition at Penrith Regional Gallery will include approximately 70 objects from the MAAS collection of post-war furniture, home appliances, architectural models, interior design, and everyday domestic objects, with an emphasis on mid-century Australian design. Featured will be recent and commissioned artworks by artists Catherine O’Donnell, eX de Medici, Blake Griffiths, Richard Goodwin, Karla Dickens, Eliza Gosse, Cope Street Collective, and Victoria Garcia.

The satellite exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum features design objects and artefacts alongside modernist artwork from the Penrith Regional Gallery collection, connecting to the mid-century origins of the Gallery as the former home of Margo and Gerald Lewers, two leading artists in the development of modernism in Australia. The Lewers’ home, with its beautiful gardens, architecture, and works of art, was known as a place of art and bohemian culture throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

Director of Penrith Regional Gallery, Dr Lee-Anne Hall, said “In The Ideal Home Sydney audiences can look forward to an exciting program including exhibition, education and public discussion. This exhibition will appeal to a broad audience, having both nostalgic appeal and points of interest for fans of modernist architecture, furniture and contents design. This diverse and interactive exhibition offers a fantastic opportunity for our audience to engage with themes and issues that continue to define home life in Australia today.”

MAAS Director Curatorial, Collections and Exhibitions, Peter Denham said the project was a true collaboration between the partners. “MAAS’ partnership with Penrith Regional Gallery began in 2016 as a way to bring communities together to explore art and design practices. The inaugural exhibition and display, Gravity and Wonder, challenged perceptions of the role of art with an installation that merged art and science with thought-provoking effect. This year’s The Ideal Home will showcase objects from the state collection as well as recent acquisitions and artwork commissions to explore the notion of home and what that means in contemporary Australia.”

The Ideal Home exhibition will be supported by a rich public program, including free and paid events that will run across the four-month exhibition period. Highlights include camp outs in the gallery gardens, community meals, writing workshops and panel discussions.

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FURTHER INFORMATION / INTERVIEWS / IMAGES:
Please contact Megan Bentley, megan@articulatepr.com, 0452 214 611 or Claire Martin, claire@articulatepr.com.au, 0414 437 588

MEDIA IMAGES: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hnqg4ms3ism49n7/AADOzaduf6n3MamR9kEuxKcqa?dl=0

EXHIBITION DETAILS:
On show 1 December 2018 – 24 March 2019
Penrith Regional Gallery, 86 River Road, Emu Plains 2750
Free Entry

The Ideal Home display 3 Nov 2018 – 19 May 2019
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris St, Ultimo NSW 2007
maas.museum/event/idealhome
Ticket included in museum entry Adult $15 / Children 16 years and under FREE / NSW Seniors Card holders pension & concessions $8

Exhibition details

For most of the 20th century Australia enjoyed one of the highest rates of home ownership in the world. In the period immediately following the Second World War, Australia enjoyed record growth and prosperity and became a consumer society, excited and liberated by technological advances, social and cultural change. The Ideal Home will consider the ways in which design and technology have influenced social change and the developments that have transformed the way we live, with key themes including the home as a haven; concepts of home, place and belonging; development in labour saving technology; and designing the ideal home.

The Ideal Home exhibition within the PRG Main Gallery will explore themes including the twentieth century home as private ‘castle’, rising affluence, consumerism, technology and design. Upon entering the Main Gallery visitors will find three ‘island’ like constructions, supporting the display of approximately seventy objects from the MAAS 20th century home and design collection. Six large-scale ‘tape’ drawings by artist Catherine O’Donnell will pay homage to the brutalist architecture of the Sirius Building, providing a commentary upon the loss of public housing and community in the inner city.

Across the rest of the Gallery site, exhibition spaces and gardens will be various artworks, installations and community projects which will consider issues such as domestic violence, home as refuge, homelessness and housing affordability.

The Lewers House Gallery, the original four-room Lewers’ homestead, will present four contemporary artworks including a major new work by artist eX de Medici. Commissioned by MAAS, the multimedia installation will explore the theme of gendered domestic violence, centred upon a three-metre water colour and an 18th century French love settee upholstered with machine-embroidered fabric. The design incorporates representations of both a pair of duelling pistols from the MAAS arms collection, and a crown of thorn plant from the Gallery garden at Penrith.

MAAS’s recent artwork acquisition Bound by Karla Dickens will be displayed in the second room of the homestead. The work presents a series of appliqued straightjackets which explore the experience of some women as ‘bound’ to the home by domesticity, family, financial dependence, violent controlling relationships and addiction.

In the third room, artist Blake Griffiths will present a major new work that assumes the form of a blanket and is woven from the artist’s material waste collected over a six month period. Through the second half of November Blake Griffith will take part in an artist residency, leading community and school participants in the creation of a woven awning for Lewers House using paper and plastic waste. In both works, the acts of shredding, cutting, twining, plying and weaving, the waste is reassigned into a large scale textile which transforms the ‘no value’ of domestic waste into an object of utility and beauty.

In the fourth room of the homestead Cope Street Collective artists Matthew Cooper and Colin Kinchela will present a powerful digital treatise in exploring race, gender roles and the effects of exaggerated masculinity in the ideal home.

In Ancher House Gallery, artist Eliza Gosse has produced a suite of gouache paintings depicting classic Sydney modernist houses. Included is a painting of the Gallery’s own modernist treasure, Ancher House, designed by modernist architect Sidney Ancher and completed in 1964 for the Lewers family. Gosse’s work highlights the clean lines, natural materials and colours favoured by modernist architects and is a reminder of an astonishing design heritage to be found in the suburbs.’

As part of its community engagement program, Penrith Regional Gallery invited the participation of local schools to work with artists to produce artworks examining housing and urban growth in Penrith that feature stories of home.

The Lounge Room Gallery will present a selection of digital photographic works led by artist Khaled Sabsabi in collaboration with students from St Dominic’s College and Caroline Chisholm College. These artworks will be in conversation with objects from the MAAS collection including an architectural model of the Ropes Crossing Estate development.

In the Gallery gardens there will be a pop up exhibition of ‘pup’ tents designed and printed with the collected stories and experiences of community elders, by secondary school children from Caroline Chisholm College in collaboration with artist Victoria Garcia. Garcia’s own work will be exhibited in the Gallery garden. Inspired by nomadic cultures the work examines the layered meanings of “home” as geographical, emotional and spiritual while considering themes of identity, movement, place and belonging. The work will be on limited exhibition in the garden over Summer 2018/19.

The Gallery garden will also feature a major commission by artist and architect Richard Goodwin who will create and install a temporary ‘dwelling’ entitled Neutral Habitation built from salvaged materials including a boat and tarpaulins to enquire in an age of homelessness and refugee movement across the globe, ‘what are where is home?’ and, ‘how much do we really need to live?’ .

To coincide with Domestic Violence Awareness week (25 November – 2 December), and in conjunction with PCC White Ribbon Committee, the river walk fencing opposite the Gallery will be transformed with a temporary installation that seeks to raise community awareness of gender based domestic and family violence. The fence will support a large white ribbon surrounded by thousands of smaller white ribbons with the community being invited to tie ribbons along the fence line over the week prior to the exhibition opening.

MAAS The Ideal Home Satellite Exhibition:
The satellite exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum, titled The Ideal Home – Art and Design, will showcase avant-garde mid-century art and design for the modern domestic environment. Key objects will reveal how Australian artists, architect, designers embraced utopian European ideas of modernism, the language of abstract forms, and a vision that art and design had an important role to play in society. This display also includes an extraordinary contemporary work by artist Bonita Ely, Singer Sewing Machine Gun. This extraordinary artwork is created with hair pins and a dismantled and reassembled sewing machine, addressing powerful issues associated with the dark interiority of domestic life.

About Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest:
Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest is set amidst heritage gardens on the western bank of the Nepean River at the foot of the Blue Mountains at Emu Plains, and was established in 1981 at the former home and property of sculptor Gerald Lewers and painter Margo Lewers. Having an exceptional Modernist and contemporary art collection, the Gallery offers a seasonal program of exhibitions, education and public programs, for the enjoyment and benefit of the people of Penrith, the surrounding region and beyond. The Gallery is open daily from 9am – 5pm and admission is free. http://www.penrithregionalgallery.org/

About the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences:
The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects. It incorporates the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre at Castle Hill. It is Australia’s foremost museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. https://maas.museum/

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Akira Isogawa Unfolding a Life in Fashion
by Akira Isogawa with Georgina Safe

Akira Isogawa exhibition exclusive to Powerhouse Museum

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‘As a designer, I want to make things that are emotionally or spiritually connected to people.’
Akira Isogawa

Akira Isogawa, photographed by Marinco Kojdanovski

Akira Isogawa’s name is synonymous with a wave of Australian designers that transformed the nation’s view of fashion. Now a new book and exhibition will celebrate this iconic designer in a career spanning over 25 years. Akira Isogawa Unfolding a Life in Fashion will be released in November, followed by Akira Isogawa, an exhibition exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, opening in December.

Born in Kyoto, Japan, Akira arrived in Australia as a young man. For over 25 years, Akira’s signature East–West fusion, manipulation of fabric, form and distinctive ‘fold’ design element, have captivated fashion audiences around the world.

Akira Isogawa: Unfolding a Life in Fashion delves into the creative world of one of Australia’s best known and most loved designers. Beautifully illustrated in over 200 pages, Akira Isogawa features more than 50 garments from Isogawa’s archive, many of which have been acquired into the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences collection, photographed in exquisite detail for the publication. Personal photographs, sketches, memorabilia and keepsakes, much of it from the designer’s own collection, are also included.

With a foreword by Akira admirer actor Cate Blanchett, and contributions from key collaborators, Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) senior curator Roger Leong, and Akira himself, the book is a visual celebration and tribute to one of Australia’s most iconic designers.

The Akira Isogawa exhibition celebrates Akira’s unique design process, from his formative years in Kyoto through his journey to Sydney. Known for his fusion of Asian tradition with Australian ease, Akira Isogawa is one of our country’s most loved and celebrated designers. This exhibition is the first to explore his career of more than 25 years, revealing the background, impulses and cultural influences that have contributed to the making of a fashion original.

Akira Isogawa: Unfolding a Life in Fashion is available from November and the exhibition Akira Isogawa opens at the Powerhouse Museum on 15 December.

Akira Isogawa: Unfolding a Life in Fashion
ISBN 9781760760182
Price $80.00
Published by Thames & Hudson in association with the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS)
Publication date: November 2018

About the authors

Georgina Safe is one of Australia’s most respected fashion authorities. She writes for Harper’s Bazaar, The Australian Financial Review, Monocle and The Business of Fashion.

Akira Isogawa was born in Kyoto, Japan and moved to Australia in 1986 where he studied fashion design. Since 1998, he has achieved international recognition for his exquisite contemporary designs, which are sought after in every major fashion capital throughout the world.

Akira Isogawa
15 December 2018 – 30 June 2019
Powerhouse Museum
maas.museum/akira
Ticket included in museum entry Adult $15 / Children 16 years and under FREE / NSW Seniors Card holders pension & concessions $8

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About The Centre for Fashion. The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

For further book information, please contact Michelle Brasington at Thames & Hudson Australia
T: 03 9646 7788 E: m.brasington@thameshudson.com.au
For further exhibition information, please contact Lisa Poulos at Hush Communications
T: 0408 408 303 E: lisa@hush.com.au

Images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1vak7ejn3yso4t0/AAC9O—fvSuE-6jBibYK1sxa?dl=0

September

SYDNEY DESIGN FESTIVAL 2019

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Expressions of interest are invited for the 21st Sydney Design Festival taking place from 1 – 10 March 2019 at venues throughout Greater Sydney. Presented by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), the Festival will be 10 days of exhibitions, talks, workshops, events and tours at venues across Sydney.

Spanning generations of designers in its 21-year history, Sydney Design Festival is one of the world’s longest running design festivals. Last year’s Festival attracted over 58,000 attendees to over 122 events. This year’s theme, Accessing Design, invites participants to consider their creative practice and the role of design in building an accessible and inclusive world.

MAAS Director Programs & Engagement, Tristan Sharp said “As Sydney Design Festival turns 21 in 2019 we invite the design community to broaden the definition of design, to consider interdisciplinary creative practices and how the future can be designed to be accessible in all ways.”

Expressions of interest are now open for program contributions across formats as varied as lectures, studio tours, exhibitions, events and networking opportunities. Design streams include but are not limited to Applied Arts, Architecture, Data Visualisation, Environmental, Experience Design, Landscape, Research and Speculative design, Social Design and User Experience.

A panel of Festival industry advisors will be integral to shaping the Festival program. NSW Architects Registration Board registrar Tim Horton said “Turning 21 is about coming of age – and that’s exactly what the design community has been waiting for. This year’s theme ‘Accessing Design’ essentially asks – how can design deliver better to those it hasn’t reached? Can design re-balance inequality in the city? Can younger people use design to shape their world? Can better access to design provide greater opportunity for more of us in a growing city?”

Expressions of Interest close on 15 October. A full Festival program will be announced on 16 January 2019.

Sydney Design Festival
1 – 10 March 2019
Expressions of Interest close 15 October 2019
www.sydneydesign.com.au/2019/

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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GET CREATIVE IN THE SPRING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AT THE MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES

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Powerhouse Museum

KID COUTURE – 29 September – 14 October, 10am – 5pm 

Free with general admission to Powerhouse Museum

Unleash your inner fashion designer at KID COUTURE!

Children and their families can create their own wearable fashion pieces using paper, fabric and recycled materials. Bring in an old piece of clothing and transform it into something new – perhaps an old shirt can become an amazing new headpiece with a few stiches, some buttons and a little imagination?!

Children under 5 can explore and play with dress-ups and fabrics in the dedicated tactile zone.

Add in a visit Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015, currently on loan from Los Angeles County Museum of Art and draw inspiration from over 130 outfits from some of the biggest names in fashion, including Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Chanel, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Jean Paul Gaultier, Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent.

UNITY GAME DESIGN: 3D SCAVENGER HUNT – 2, 3, 11 and 12 October

Children 9-10 years, 2 and 3 Oct 10am to 4pm, Child: $200, MAAS Member Child: $180
Children 11-12 years, 11 and 12 Oct 10am to 4pm, Child: $200, MAAS Member Child: $180

Develop your own action-inspired game using the professional game engine Unity 5 at the Powerhouse Museum! This two-day workshop focuses on behind-the-scenes development of games with the quality software that brings a game to life. Make a 3D scavenger hunt game with custom characters and collectables and use professional tools used by some of the world’s largest companies.

Unity Game Design Workshops with full day sessions for ages 9-10, 11-12 and 13-15

 

Sydney Observatory

 SYDNEY OBSERVATORY EXTRAVAGANZA – 10 October, 10am – 1:30pm

Child (4 years and over): $15, MAAS Member child: $13, Free entry for parents and carers (max. two per child). Planetarium session an additional $5 charge per participant.

Visit Sydney Observatory to peer through telescopes and binoculars with our expert guides and learn how you can build your own scientific investigations at home. Get set for a moonwalk at our Astronaut Obstacle Course, explore the solar system at the gravity table and launch with space themed arts and crafts. Budding archaeologists can unearth the Observatory’s historic site and grounds at our dig pit.

ROCKET DAY – 2 and 11 Oct 10am to 4pm

Child: $110, MAAS Member Child: $100, full day program for ages 8-10

3.. 2.. 1…blast off at Sydney Observatory! Start the day by constructing and decorating your own rocket to take home along with plans for a launch pad pump. While these dry and set, pilot a simulator game to design, build, launch and fly your own digital rockets. Finally, finish the day on a high by launching our pre-made rockets with Arduino sensors and a video camera that record the height and path of each rocket.

 

Museums Discovery Centre

MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE FAMILY DAY – 12 October, 10am – 1:00pm

Child (4 years and over): $15, MAAS Member child: $13, Free entry for parents and carers (max. two per child).

Join in an array of hands on activities exploring the collections of the Sydney Living Museum, Australia Museum and Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences. Kids of all ages can explore the mechanics of flight by crafting their own paper planes in the engineering zone, or investigate architecture using a range of Lego, Meccano, block and construction materials.

JUMP INTO….

Workshops are $22 per child or $20 for MAAS Member children

Jump into 2-hour creative workshops at the Museums Discovery Centre where kids can experiment by making their own songs and stop motion animations, as well as program their own Mbots, get messy with our Super Science workshops and explore electronic design and augmented reality.

Workshops include:

• Jump into: Songwriting (ages 9-12) 3 Oct 1-3pm
• Jump into: Program an Mbot (ages 8-10) 4 and 9 Oct 1-3pm
• Jump into: Super Science (ages 6-7) 5 and 13 Oct 1-3pm
• Jump into: littleBits (ages 8-10) 8 Oct 10am to noon
• Jump into: Stop Motion (ages 7-9) 7 Oct 10am to noon and 8 Oct 1-3pm
• Jump into: Electronic Design (ages 8-12) 10 Oct 10am to noon

 

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES CONTACT:
MAAS Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

School holiday images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/8ejyueh4mg5fp3o/AAAVJ0aZrwZtqCxA18qspVvda?dl=0  

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences

Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences founded in 1879 has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

JULY

Media statement

President, MAAS Trust, Barney Glover

The Department of Planning and Environment has confirmed that Dolla Merrillees has decided to not apply for the new role of Chief Executive of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences and consequently has decided to leave MAAS. The Department will be commencing a recruitment process for a new Chief Executive for MAAS in the coming days.

Dolla Merrillees has made a significant contribution during her time as Director of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS).

Dolla has been Director of MAAS since 2016 and during this period she has led a number of initiatives and pursued new opportunities for the Museum including, most critically, the proposed development of MAAS’ flagship museum in Parramatta. Dolla has also maintained an outstanding exhibition program both showcasing the Museum’s extensive world class collection and attracting major touring programs to MAAS.

Dolla has embodied MAAS’ mission to be a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds and the MAAS Trust thanks Dolla for her outstanding leadership and contribution to MAAS.

With an upcoming major building and relocation program, we look forward to the appointment of a new Chief Executive. Making this decision now allows us the time to find the best candidate who can manage this major new cultural infrastructure project through to implementation.

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SYDNEY SCIENCE FESTIVAL

WESTERN SYDNEY FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Bumper Program of Western Sydney Events Announced

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Sydney Science Festival returns to Western Sydney this August, bringing a program of astronomical proportions to venues across Parramatta, Westmead, Penrith, Richmond, and Castle Hill from Tuesday 7 – Sunday 19 August.

Science fanatics can explore animal welfare science in The Science of Animals, with RSPCA Scientific Officer Dr Bronwynn Orr; time-travel through the evolution of Australian medicine over the century in Health, Healing and Hospitals; embark on a journey through the past, present and future of cancer treatment in World-leading Westmead: Oncology Innovations; and learn about the influence of bilingualism on brain growth in Is Bilingualism Good for your Child’s Brain?

Other highlights include a bumper program across Western Sydney University campuses, including a virtual reality journey through places of the past in Travel Space and Time with Virtual Reality; conversations with talented young designers at the forefront of innovation in Designing for Health and Wellbeing in a Smart City; and Forensic Science: Crime Scene Investigation, an insight into the fascinating world of forensic sciences.

See the full list of events taking place throughout Western Sydney below:

EARTH AND SPACE

• The Science of Animals: Humans, Wildlife and Pets – Do dogs prefer to be trained using treats or punishment? Do chickens have good or bad lives in battery cages? In this talk, RSCPA Scientific Officer Dr Bronwyn Orr explores the theory behind animal welfare science.

• Homeward Bound – In this engaging talk, Homeward Bound participant Mary-Ellen Feeney sheds light on her experiences with the project – an annual leadership program set in the waters off Antarctica, bringing together some of the best international women in STEM.

• Travel Space and Time with Virtual Reality – Travel back in time and take a walking tour through the past with virtual reality, from ancient Mesopotamia to Parramatta before Captain Cook’s time, and The Rocks in 1901.

• Searching For ET – Are we alone in the universe? Learn about the latest developments in the search for life outside our planet with Australian astronomer Dr Ragbir Bhathal, who was involved in one of the longest searches in the Southern Hemisphere for laser pulses from ET life.

• Dr Karl in the West – Could there be life on one of Saturn’s moons? What would happen if the Earth stopped spinning? Why are some people chronically late? How much power could you collect from all the lightning on Earth? And is your home WiFi really spying on you? Dr Karl Kruszelnicki presents a fun and fascinating talk explaining all.

HEALTH AND BODY

• Gut Health: Science Talk and Kombucha Workshop – A plant-based diet is often associated with improved gut health. But why? Learn more about how food processing can affect our gut health even before we consume it in this thought-provoking talk with Nutritional Food Scientist Dr Anneline Padayachee, all while you create your own glass of Kombucha.

• Health, Healing and Hospitals – Join the Parramatta Heritage and Visitor Information Centre to time-travel through the evolution of Australian medicine in this engaging talk, from colonial times – when the convict hospital caused more illness than it cured – to the cutting-edge treatments of today.

• Is Bilingualism Good for your Child’s Brain? – An intriguing talk on the science of language, Dr Mark Antoniou (Leader of the Speech and Language research program within The MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development) explores the influence of bilingualism on brain growth among children.

• The Hidden World in your Gut with Alison Luk – Did you know that there are more bacteria living inside your intestine than there are people in the world? Microbiologist Alison Luk presents a stimulating talk on how you can keep your gut microbes healthy by eating the right types of food, and how your microbes return the favour by making you healthier.

• Nursing Innovations From And For The Heart – A talk delving into the intriguing story of Parramatta District Hospital’s Cardiac Fitness and Rehabilitation Auxiliary. This pioneering unit was Australia’s first, and one of the first in the world.

• World-leading Westmead: Oncology Innovations – This fascinating tour traverses the past, present and future of cancer treatment at Westmead Hospital, the world-leading research and teaching hospital in Sydney’s West.

• Treating the Troubled Mind: Historical Tour – This coach tour journeys through the evolution of Australian mental health treatment, from colonial times to the cutting-edge, holistic treatments now being provided at Westmead. The tour concludes with a presentation by Director of Mental Health at Westmead Mental Health Services A/Professor Beth Kotze.

• The Chain of Survival – This series of pop-up events celebrates the medical breakthroughs that have increased the survival rate of cardiac patients over the last sixty years. Taking place across Parramatta’s Robin Thomas Reserve, Farmer’s Market and Lake Parramatta.

• Bush Medicine Workshop – Before personal trainers and gym memberships, how did people maintain their fitness and health? In this workshop, delve into the world of traditional Indigenous medicine and discover a range of natural cures and treatments for illness, injuries and infirmities which can be found in the Australian bushland.

YOUTH AND FAMILIES

• Designing for Health and Wellbeing in a Smart City – How do we live better as we age? Talented young designers at the forefront of innovation answer this question and more, in this talk exploring how we can integrate design, science and technology to live better, stronger and longer.

• The Science of Pets: How Humans and Animals Live Together – Join Macquarie University animal behaviour researcher Matt Bulbert, vet and University of Sydney vet science lecturer Dr Anne Fawcett and other animals experts for an afternoon dedicated to the discussion of our relationships with animals. Why we love them, why they love us, how we can make their lives better, how they make our lives better. Presented by the Information and Cultural Exchange (ICE).

• Explore the Power of Code: Coderdojo – Suitable for young programmers aged 7-17, these free, open air STEM workshops will teach kids how to code, develop websites, apps, programs, games and explore technology in an informal, creative environment.

• Feel the Groove: Sync with the Musical Beat – Join Western Sydney University’s Music Cognition and Action Research Program Leader, Professor Peter Keller and Research Assistant Eline Smit exploring the limits of how well humans can synchronise with music and with one another.

• Astronomy Night At Penrith Observatory – All ages are welcome and curiosity is encouraged at this wondrous evening of astronomy fun. The event includes a presentation with Q&A presented by the team at Western Sydney University’s Penrith Observatory, a short 3D astronomy movie, a tour of the Observatory’s dome area, and an opportunity to view the night sky through a variety of telescopes.

• Meet Real Life Scientists At Parramatta Library – Come along to meet an eclectic panel of scientists and find out why they do what they do at this free event as part of Inspiring Australia’s Talking Science series.

• Forensic Science: Crime Scene Investigation – Interested in studying forensics? Tour the Crime Scene Investigation Training and Research Facility that is used by the NSW Police Force to train their crime scene examiners, and find out what it’s like to study forensics at Western Sydney University.

– ENDS –

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Amy Owen: amy@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0404 977 338
Genvin In: genvin@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0449 939 864

Follow Sydney Science Festival on:
Facebook: facebook.com/sydneysciencefestival
Twitter: @SydScienceFest
Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/fjfqf71elm7q653/AACPu7Bt6RcivIH-5yPi5g84a?dl=0

Event: Sydney Science Festival
Dates: 7 – 19 August 2018
Website: www.sydneyscience.com.au

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BALLISTIC BAKED GOODS, BELIEF AND BOTANY AT NEW EXHIBITION HUMAN NON HUMAN

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Art, science and speculation converge in Human non Human, an exhibition posing the question: what makes us human, and how might humans adapt in the future? Exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum from 7 August – 27 January 2019 and opening as part of the Sydney Science Festival, the exhibition is a riveting exploration of humanity’s entanglement with non-human agents.

“We’re thrilled to unveil Human non Human, two years in the making,” said Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Director of Curatorial, Collections and Exhibitions Peter Denham. “In exploring what it means to be human, the exhibition provides insights on the collective human experience, as intimate as it is vastly universal. The exhibition is a great reflection on MAAS’ commitment to driving, exploring and celebrating the intersections of art and science and features some of Australia’s most exciting artists.”

Immersive and multisensory, Human non Human will merge architecture, design, robotics, biotechnology, chemistry, animism, film and performance across four themes correlating to integral elements of life: Food, Work, Sex and Belief. This premiere exhibition comprises four installation works informed by a multitude of scientific fields, devised by four celebrated artists: Maria Fernanda Cardoso, Lindsay Kelley, Ken Thaiday and Liam Young.

Food: Ballistic Bundts – Lindsay Kelley

How does our experience of eating change with new technologies? In Ballistic Bundts, Kelley presents bullet-riddled cakes made from ballistic gel – commonly used as a human flesh simulator in military weapons testing. Her inedible delicacies address the interwoven relationships between food and military technology, and the growing concern of providing food on a global scale.

Work: Renderlands – Liam Young

Crafted from discarded digital assets of the animation industry, Young’s film Renderlands is a thought-provoking investigation into the increased outsourcing of Western animation to “dream factory” render-studios in India. Merging fiction and documentary, the mixed-reality neo-noir film follows an animator falling in love with the character he is rendering, alongside footage of the real places in which these imaginary worlds are manufactured as well as architectural models of these places.

Sex: On the Marriages of Plants – Maria Fernanda Cardoso

When it comes to the relationship between humans and plants, who is really manipulating who? Using deep focus photography to capture intricate floral sex organs, On the Marriages of Plants explores the beauty, seduction and biological imperative of reproduction. Cardoso draws from influential Swedish botanist Carl Linneaus and contemporary US writer Michael Pollan in this fascinating examination of the critical role of plants on human survival.

Belief: Dance Machines – Ken Thaiday with Jason Christopher

Dancer, choreographer and artist Dr Ken Thaiday sr merges ancestral Torres Strait Island marine symbolism with modern materials in crafting automated and autonomous Dance Machines. Created with Sydney artist Jason Christopher, these unique creations show the adaptability and resilience of cultural forms in the face of technological development, and the deep histories of body augmentation and transformation.

Complementing Human non Human will be a vibrant series of special events. Visitors can sample Lindsay Kelley’s edible gelatinous anatomy, stargaze with astronomers on the Sydney Observatory forecourt, escape into virtual reality, or speed-meet a scientist or two at after-hours launch MAASive Lates: Science (9 August); learn about hidden floral structures with Maria Fernanda Cardoso in the Botany Undressed workshop (11 August); and explore the oscillations of global data with Liam Young in stunning cinematic lecture Design, Fiction and Futures: the Architecture of Liam Young (8 August).

Human non Human is presented as part of the Australian Research Council Linkage Project’s larger research-based initiative, Curating Third Space: The Value of Art-Science Collaboration in partnership with University of New South Wales Art & Design.

Human non Human Exhibition

Dates: 7 August 2017 – 27 January 2019
Curators: Katie Dyer, MAAS and Dr. Lizzie Muller, UNSW Art & Design
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo Admission: Free with general admission: $15 adult, $8 concession, kids under 16 years free
An ARC Linkage Project exhibition in collaboration with MAAS.
For full program details please visit https://sydneyscience.com.au/2018/event/human-non-human/

MEDIA CONTACT:

Amy Owen amy@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0404 977 338
Genvin In genvin@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0449 939 864

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About Curating Third Space: The Value of Art-Science Collaboration
This ARC Linkage project aims to investigate the importance of art-science collaboration in contemporary research. Developing an innovative method to evaluate aesthetic dynamics, the project seeks to examine how art-science exhibition generates new modes of transdisciplinary knowledge and unique forms of public engagement. The method will be applied to 3 major case studies of art-science exhibition, including but not limited to Human non Human in collaboration with MAAS.

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REFLECTIONS OF ASIA 

Exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney

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Reflections of Asia: Collectors and Collections opens exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, from 7 July 2018. The exhibition features over 550 objects from across Asia spanning from ceramic objects from the Neolithic period over 4000 years ago to fashion designers of the current day.

Reflections of Asia showcases the Museum of Applied Arts and Science’s extensive Asian collection, built up over the past 140 years, and serves as a record of the enduring Western fascination with Asia and how Asian cultures have inspired Western artists. This is the first time a comprehensive survey of the MAAS Asian collection has been on display.

MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees said “Reflections of Asia showcases 140 years of collected works in the MAAS collection and tells the story of how and why the museum has collected over generations. This exhibition provides a unique insight into the ways in which museums build collections that both preserve and document our history for future generations.”

Reflections of Asia exhibition curator Min-Jung Kim said “Makers in the west have long been captivated by the east, often taking inspiration from eastern aesthetics and attempting to replicate manufacturing techniques. This exhibition explores that appeal and influence.”

Drawn from over 10,000 objects in the state collection, exhibition highlights include two Ming dynasty bronze deity figures (two of only eight known in the world) that were originally a mystery and finally authenticated in 2016;
a huge Japanese incense burner over 2 metres high that has never been on display and an ancient scroll that is believed to be one of oldest Chinese paintings in Australia.

Adding to the extensive MAAS collection are loans from two private collectors of contemporary art; White Rabbit Collection and Gene & Brian Sherman Collection highlighting contemporary collecting trends. Art works include Chinese artists Shi Jindian’s Blue CJ750, steel wire crocheted sculpture of Chinese military motorbike, Wang Lei’s Fabrication 3 exploring the Chinese invention of paper and Ai Weiwei’s Overcoat, a military uniform signed by the artist. An installation by Chinese Australian paper-cut artists, Tianli Zu will also be on display.

The exhibition is presented in seven themes; Wood and Lacquerwork, Ceramics, Metalwork, Small Treasures, Dress and Textiles, Contemporary Fashion and Contemporary Art. These themes are explored through the lens of key Australian collectors from the 19th century to the current day; Julian Tenison-Woods (1832-1889), Charles Laseron (1887-1959), Christian Rowe Thornett (1872-1972), Hedda and Alastair Morrison (1908-1991, 1915-2009), Judith and Ken Rutherford, Gene Sherman and Judith Neilson.

Reflections of Asia will open on 7 July, the day of the annual Japanese Tanabata Star Festival; a celebration of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi, two lovers represented by the stars Vega and Altair who meet once a year.

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What: Reflections of Asia: Collectors and Collections
When: 7 July 2018 – December 2019
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Free with museum admission
Website maas.museum/event/reflections-of-asia-collectors-and-collections/

MEDIA CONTACT: Eli Wallis, MAAS T: 0402 359 016 E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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JUNE

MIND BLOWING LINE-UP ANNOUNCED FOR  SYDNEY SCIENCE FESTIVAL 2018

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Full Program Announced

The Sydney Science Festival returns in 2018 with a program of astronomical proportions. Taking place from Tuesday 7 – Sunday 19 August, the Festival rockets into venues around Sydney and is overflowing with hands on science experiences for all ages.

Featuring 13 days jam-packed with over 200 events across 90 venues, the Sydney Science Festival brings together some of the greatest minds in science today, including Sydney Science Festival Ambassador and astronomer, Lisa Harvey-Smith, Indigenous Astronomer Kirsten Banks, leading Artificial Intelligence expert Ellen Broad, A.I. researcher Toby Walsh, comedian and public health practitioner Alanta Colley, former Greens leader Bob Brown, and 2018 Australian of the Year quantum physicist Michelle Simmons.

“Innovation is an essential part of any growing city. The Sydney Science Festival gives industry leaders and emerging talent a unique opportunity to both share and showcase their vision for a smarter future. With such a diverse line-up of speakers and exhibitions hosted across some of Sydney’s most iconic venues, including the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo, I’m confident that this year’s Festival will be our most ambitious and successful to date,” said Minister for the Arts, The Hon. Don Harwin.

Now in its fourth year, Sydney Science Festival is produced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) and the Australian Museum as part of National Science Week, in partnership with Inspiring Australia.

“Last year saw 70,000 fans attend over 180 events, presented by 60 partners at the Sydney Science Festival. The incredible program for this year’s Festival provides an opportunity for the general public, both young and old, to come together to understand and marvel at how science influences every aspect of our lives. As STEAM disciplines become increasing important to future economies museums such as MAAS have a key role to play in engaging and educating students about the real-world applications of STEAM in our everyday lives,” said MAAS Director of Programs and Engagement, Tristan Sharp.

On Thursday 9 August, after-hours favourite MAASLive Lates: Science returns to the Powerhouse Museum to celebrate the launch of the Festival. This free event is your chance meet experts, get creative with a range of hands-on activities, tour exhibitions and chat with curators in a huge night of science.

Program Highlights

What happens when galaxies collide? It might sound like an abstract question, but it’s one that our descendants might need to worry about. Sydney Science Festival Ambassador, Lisa Harvey-Smith presents a lively talk on how a future collision between our own galaxy, the Milky Way, and its nearest neighbour will bring dramatic changes to our night sky. Lisa Harvey-Smith Keynote: When Galaxies Collide will take place on Friday 10 August, the possible galaxy collision on the other hand wont be for at least 3.8 billion years!

Get set for some outdoor fun with Science in the Swamp at Centennial Park. The FREE day is a favourite among families and this year’s theme “Dinosaur vs Superpower” will combine two of kid’s favourites. With roving dinosaurs and scientists on hand to point out amazing super powers found in nature, it’s an action packed day of fun. And don’t forget to come in your superhero outfit!

More family-focused events include the hands-on Super Science Saturday at the Australian Museum and Big Science Day at the Powerhouse Museum where interactive science shows and demonstrations will have the museum buzzing with science action.

A highlight of the Festival will be a new exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum. Art, science and speculation converge in Human Non-Human, an exhibition that asks “what makes us human and how might humans adapt in the future?” The exhibition features four art commissions that incorporate architecture, design, robotics, biotechnology, chemistry, animism, film and performance to consider the entanglement between humans and technology. Featuring artists Maria Fernanda Cardoso, Lindsay Kelley, Ken Thaiday and Liam Young, Human Non-Human explores the themes of food, work, sex and belief.

Sit back and enjoy a special screening of the landmark documentary The Living Universe – It’s Time to Meet the Neighbours. The film is an extraplanetary search for life on other planets. After the film, a panel of eminent scientists, space engineers, biologists and philosophers will answer the audience’s burning questions. The Living Universe will take place on Thursday 9 August at Event Cinemas, George Street.

Take a look into the future with Good Robot/Bad Robot – Living with intelligent machines/living with artificial intelligence. Leading Artificial Intelligence expert Ellen Broad, A.I. researcher Toby Walsh and MIT Media Lab technologist Hae Won Park will try to answer the question “if robots can be everything from carers to warriors, what does this mean not just for human lives, but for the way we understand human intelligence, human values, and humanity itself?”

Celebrate the women of science in GenWomen: Scientists Smash the Glass Ceiling where six women from six generations of science, including Indigenous Astronomer Kirsten Banks, share their experiences and challenge the stereotypes and preconceptions about what being a scientist means.

Alanta Colley: Parasites Lost combines science communication, storytelling, and comedy in a parable on parasites. Join comedian and public health practitioner Alanta Colley as she takes audiences on an adventure, across the world and through her intestine; and learn about some of the world’s cheekiest micro-organisms, and how she contracted each of them. Alanta Colley: Parasites Lost takes place on Thursday 9 – 12 August.

Established in 1999, the Jack Beale Lecture Series provides an opportunity for a prominent individual to examine Australia’s environmental responsibilities, opportunities and performance within a global context. On Wednesday 15 August at the University of NSW, the series invites former Greens Leader and environmentalist Bob Brown to share his insights.

Five years ago, 2018 Australian of the Year Professor Michelle Simmons and her team developed the world’s first transistor made from a single atom, as well as the world’s thinnest wire. Now she is looking to build a quantum computer capable of solving problems in minutes, which would otherwise take thousands of years. Join Professor Simmons for an insightful discussion on her work launching Australia into “the space race of the computing era” in The Einstein Lecture: The Quantum Computing Revolution by Australian of the Year 2018 – Michelle Simmons. The lecture takes place Tuesday 14 August at the University of NSW.

This year Sydney Science Festival features 25 events in suburban libraries throughout Sydney. From Castle Hill, to Liverpool, Sutherland, Blacktown and Parramatta there are 25 scientists are ready to meet local communities and talk about their research. The libraries have experts on everything from women’s brains, robots, technology of the future, gut health, Antarctica, bilingualism and children’s brains.

Dr Karl Kruszelnicki tackles the big issues in the universe today, like how air conditioners are sexist and whether there could be life on one of Saturn’s moons in Dr Karl Out West on Wednesday 15 August.

Innovation Games is a free event full of new ways to taste, touch and see science in action. At Innovation Games on Saturday 18 August, Sydney Olympic Park will be buzzing with interactive displays, an augmented reality treasure hunt, live stage shows, games, gadgets, film and food.

The MAAS Indigenous Sciences Symposium 2018 is dedicated to honouring the next generation of Indigenous scientists and those who are supporting their development. Join in on two days of events to celebrate 60 000 years of technological advancement and eco-sustainable practices. Presenters include recipients of the CSIRO Indigenous STEM and IDX awards for their exceptional contribution to the advancement of Indigenous sciences and technology locally, nationally and globally.

The full Sydney Science Festival program is available online at www.sydneyscience.com.au. For more information about National Science Week events visit www.scienceweek.net.au.

– ENDS –

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Matt Fraser: matt@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0401 326 007

Event: Sydney Science Festival
Dates: 7 – 19 August 2018
Website: www.sydneyscience.com.au

Follow Sydney Science Festival on:
Facebook: facebook.com/sydneysciencefestival
Twitter: @SydScienceFest
Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/fjfqf71elm7q653/AACPu7Bt6RcivIH-5yPi5g84a?dl=0

MAY

SYDNEY MUSEUMS FREE FOR ONE WEEKEND ONLY

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(Tuesday 12 June, 2018, Sydney, Australia): The Australian Museum (AM) and Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) will be offering free entry to all their venues for one weekend only, this 23 and 24 June.

For one weekend only there will be free entry to the Australian Museum, Powerhouse Museum, Museums Discovery Centre and Sydney Observatory – this year celebrating its 160th anniversary.

Now in its fourth year, the annual Free Museum Weekend has become a popular event for visitors of all ages from across NSW and Australia to experience the NSW state collections.

Minister for the Arts, the Hon Donald Harwin said “Over 100,000 visitors have enjoyed the Free Museum Weekend since it began 2014. This NSW government initiative was designed to encourage people from across NSW who may not be regular visitors to cultural institutions to enjoy a museum experience. With four venues participating in the annual event and everything from rare fossils to space suits on display there is something for everyone.”

MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees said “The Powerhouse Museum is a firm favourite with children of all ages. Generations have enjoyed the Transport, Space and Experimentations exhibitions, many of whom now return to share the experience with their own children. One of our most popular exhibitions is The Wiggles, which has seen over 500,000 tiny fans immerse themselves in the Wiggles world. We look forward to welcoming both regular and new museum visitors to MAAS over the Free Museum Weekend.”

“For the first time Sydney Observatory will be open free to the public at night over the Free Museum Weekend, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the Observatory at its finest hour, under the canopy of stars in the night sky. We look forward to celebrating the 160th anniversary of the Observatory with visitors across the weekend.” said Ms Merrillees

Director and CEO of the Australian Museum, Kim McKay AO said visitors over the free weekend will be able to see incredible exhibitions including Gadi – an exploration of the rich and intricate culture of Sydney’s Gadigal people told in their own language. “It is a first-hand story of the Gadi people. In addition, visitors will be able to see our wonderful Wild Planet and discover hidden gems in the 200 Treasures exhibition in the Westpac Long Gallery. And for those who don’t mind paying a little more, they will be able to see our special exhibition, Mammoths – Giants of the Ice Age which features baby Lyuba – the most intact baby mammoth specimen ever found, from the from Yamal-Nenets District Museum in Siberia.”

Across the weekend museum visitors can experience two exciting exhibitions at a discounted price for the weekend: 300 years of men’s fashion history in Reigning Men at the Powerhouse Museum and Mammoths at the Australian Museum.

The Museums Discovery Centre in Castle Hill stores the collections of MAAS, AM and Sydney Living Museums, housing millions of objects from three of Sydney’s favourite museums. During the Free Museum Weekend the Museums Discovery Centre will hold tours of the deep stores, collection-specific tours, performances, workshops and presentations by Australian Museum’s First Nations experts.

Visitors wishing to attend participating venues for Free Museum Weekend can register online to receive free entry. Registrations are limited. Visit http://freemuseumweekend.eventbrite.com.au to register.

The Free Museum Weekend runs daily Saturday 23 June and Sunday 24 June 2017, at the following locations:

AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM (AM)
9.30am – 5pm daily, 1 William Street, Sydney, 02 9320 6000
https://www.australianmuseum.net.au/
Free access includes all the museum favourites such as Wild Planet, Minerals and Surviving Australia, as well as hands-on activities in Search & Discover and Kidspace. Entry to Mammoths – Giants of the Ice Age is at the special discounted price of $10 for adults and $5 for kids.

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
10am – 5pm daily, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo. 02 9217 0111
maas.museum/powerhouse-museum/

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What: Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015
When: 2 May – 14 October 2018
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: $5 (Members and Children under 16 free)
Website maas.museum/event/reigning-men-fashion-in-menswear-1715-2015/

SYDNEY OBSERVATORY
10am – 8.30pm daily, 1003 Upper Fort Street, Millers Point. 02 9217 0111
https://maas.museum/sydney-observatory

MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE (MDC)
10AM – 5PM daily, 170 Showground Road, Castle Hill. 02 9217 0111
https://maas.museum/museums-discovery-centre/

For further information please contact
MAAS (Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory) Eli Wallis: eli.wallis@maas.museum / 0402 359 016
Australian Museum Claire Vince: claire.vince@austmus.gov.au / 0468 726 910

Australian Museum (AM) Australian Museum (AM), founded in 1827, is the nation’s first museum, and is an internationally recognised natural science and culture institution focused on Australia and the Pacific. As custodian of more than 18 million objects, the AM is uniquely positioned to provide a greater understanding of the region through its scientific research, exhibitions and public and education programs. Through the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), the AM also has a leading role in conserving Australia’s biodiversity through understanding the environmental impacts of climate change, potential biosecurity threats and invasive species.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

Museums Discovery Centre
The Museums Discovery Centre (MDC) is a collaboration between the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australian Museum (AM) and Sydney Living Museums.
Inside the Museums Discovery Centre you will find millions of treasures, with hundreds on display for you to explore, and thousands more waiting to be discovered through booked tours of the deep collection stores. A visit to the MDC also provides you with a rare opportunity to learn about museum collecting, conservation and research practices.

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SYDNEY OBSERVATORY CELEBRATES 160^TH ANNIVERSARY

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Sydney Observatory celebrates 160 years in June 2018 with night tours, a new time ball, book launches and a once-in-80,000 years celestial event!

Since opening in 1858 Sydney Observatory has set the time for ships in Sydney Harbour, contributed to charting the southern hemisphere night sky and inspired a fascination with galaxies far away for hundreds of thousands of visitors both locally and across the world.

MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees said “Sydney Observatory has a special place in the hearts of the people of NSW. From the heart of the city this special building has been opening up the night sky to visitors to ponder the universe for 160 years.”

Opposition of Mars and lunar eclipse
Every 16 years Mars’ orbit moves significantly closer to Earth. This is called the Opposition of Mars. Approximately once every 80,000 years this event coincides with a lunar eclipse, as it will on Saturday 28 July. At dusk in Australia there will be a full moon that will look red, alongside an unusually large Mars. So mark 28 July 2018 in your diaries to see the Opposition of Mars and lunar eclipse. Or wait until 28 July 82018.

Sydney Observatory book launches
Sydney Observatory is the nation’s oldest operating observatory. This history is captured in a new book launching in July; The History of Sydney Observatory, written by astronomers, historians and staff past and present. In August MAAS will launch Time and Memory, a book exploring the history of Time as a museum collecting theme.

Time for a new ball
Built on the highest natural point in Sydney, Sydney Observatory originally set the time for Sydney by dropping the time ball each day for ships in the harbour to set their chronometers. For the past 160 years the time ball has still been dropped at 1pm each day. In 2017 the MAAS annual appeal raised money to refurbish the time ball, which has been replaced atop the Observatory in all its bright yellow glory in time for the 160th anniversary.

New tours at Sydney Observatory
Sydney Observatory night tours are so popular new tours have been added in 2018 to keep up with demand to view the night sky through both historic and cutting-edge telescopes. In celebration of the 160th anniversary of Sydney Observatory and collaborated with the Australian Architecture Association to develop a series of daytime Architectural Tours that will provide visitors with a deeper appreciation of the history of the building, the site and the technology operated at Sydney Observatory.

EVENT DETAILS
What: Sydney Observatory Architecture Tour
When: 11am – 12pm 29 July, 26 August, 30 September, 25 November
Where: Sydney Observatory, Upper Fort Street, Millers Point, Sydney
Price: $30 Adult $25 Concession $25 MAAS or AAA Members
Website maas.museum/event/sydney-observatory-architecture-tour-2/

Preserving Sydney’s history
Sydney Observatory has played a seminal role in the history of timekeeping, meteorology and astronomy in Australia. MAAS has been developing a comprehensive Conservation Management Plan to preserve one of the most significant sites in the nation’s scientific history for future generations. Due for completion in late 2018 the plan will ensure this heritage site will continues its important role as a museum and public observatory.

MEDIA CONTACT: Eli Wallis, MAAS T: 0402 359 016 E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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Kids reign in the winter school holidays at Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences

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Rug up in style during the winter school holidays as the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences revels in 300 years of fashion, delves into the design process and climbs Observatory Hill to celebrate the 160th anniversary of Sydney Observatory.

Powerhouse Museum

Create your own kid couture these school holidays in celebration of the Powerhouse Museum’s newest exhibition, Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015, from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. With over 130 outfits, spanning 300 years of fashion history there is plenty of inspiration to draw from in designing your own wearable art. From sketching to pattern making and working with figure mannequins, visitors to the Tinkering Hall will have a hands-on experience of the fashion industry. For children under five a tactile texture zone will entertain and delight.

Museums Discovery Centre

Design and make using the collections of three museums as inspiration. Museums Discovery Centre is home to millions of objects from the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, Australian Museum and Sydney Living Museums. Inventive kids can draw inspiration from anything from bicycles to beetle wings and historic ceiling roses. Work with clay, sewing machines and millinery magic based on the people, places and technology within the Museums Discovery Centre stores.

Sydney Observatory

Budding scientists and astronomy enthusiasts can learn about the history of Sydney Observatory these school holidays to mark the 160th anniversary of Australia’s oldest operating observatory. Since June 1858 Sydney Observatory has set the time for ships in Sydney harbour, charted the night sky and been Sydney’s favourite location for star gazing through telescopes old and new. Create your own woven star constellation, make your own sun dial, explore how to record weather and learn about the cosmos with free activities running daily across the school holidays.

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
What: Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015
When: 2 May – 14 October 2018
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: $20 Adult $13 Concession (inc general admission) Members and Children 16 and under free
Website: maas.museum/event/reigning-men-fashion-in-menswear-1715-2015/

What: Kid Couture
When: 10am – 5pm Daily, 7 – 22 July
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Free with general admission
Website: https://ma.as/schoolholidaysphm

SYDNEY OBSERVATORY
What: Observatory Maker
When: 10:30am – 1:30pm Daily, 9 – 22 July
Where: Sydney Observatory, Upper Fort Street, Millers Point, Sydney
Price: Free
Website: https://ma.as/schoolholidaysobs

MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE
What: Design and Make
When: 10am – 3pm Daily, 9 – 22 July
Where: Museums Discovery Centre, 172 Showground Road, Castle Hill
Price: Free with general admission to Museums Discovery Centre
Website: https://ma.as/schoolholidaysmdc

Photography assets:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/25vr9ijxpmxpede/AAB4aNWRmHm_3-TnGzBKL_gUa?dl=0

MEDIA CONTACT Eli Wallis, MAAS 0402 359 016 eli.wallis@maas.museum

About Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015
Presented by the MAAS Centre for Fashion, the exhibition features over 130 outfits ranging from extravagant silks worn by 18th century aristocrats to the flawless tailoring of 19th century dandies to renowned fashion brands including Tom Ford, Raf Simons, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Craig Green, Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, Comme des Garçons, Giorgio Armani, Jean Paul Gaultier, Dries Van Noten, Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences founded in 1879 has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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MAASive LATES: REIGN SUPREME

FREE ADULTS ONLY NIGHT AT POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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Explore the Powerhouse Museum free at the adults-only after-hours event MAASive Lates: Reign Supreme on Thursday 21 June 2018.

MAASive Lates: Reign Supreme will celebrate the Powerhouse Museum’s newest exhibition, Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015, with an evening of fashion events, talks, tours and impromptu parades. Highlights of MAASive Lates: Reign Supreme include Men In This Town founder and director Giuseppe Santamaria and writer Ali Asghar Shah discuss the intersection of art, fashion, history and identity; a fashion parade by the self-styled Sapeur’s of Western Sydney including Reigning Men Ambassador Isaac Kisimba; explore the future of sustainable textiles with hands-on Textile Tactics demonstrations run by UNSWAD designers and researchers Alia Parker, Emma Peters and Hannah Ritchie Young; and watch a screening of award winning documentary Men of the Cloth. Don your dapper outfits for a chance to win best-dressed on the night, or bring your beloved outfits along to join the drop-in stations where you can mend clothes, design your own tote bag and donate clothing to charity.

Entry to MAASive Lates: Reign Supreme is free. Add an after-hours viewing and exclusive curator-led tours of the exhibition Reigning Men for $5 (usually $20). A riot of colour and style, Reigning Men is the largest and most important menswear exhibition ever assembled, and explodes the myth that menswear is restrained.

MAASive Lates is a series of one-off events curated by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, opening the Powerhouse Museum at night for adults-only to experience exhibitions, performances and interactive experiences. Each MAASive Lates event expands upon themes that underpin current exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum and embody the MAAS commitment to being a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds.

MAASive LATES 2018

MAASive Lates: Science, Thursday 9 August
Join thousands of science enthusiasts to celebrate the 2018 Sydney Science Festival. Enjoy an after-hours evening of science talks, demonstrations and the opening of a new exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum.

MAASive Lates: Star Wars, Thursday 22 November
Explore future technologies, space exploration and science fiction at the Powerhouse Museum in honour of STAR WARS^TM Identities: The Exhibition.

 

EVENT DETAILS

What: MAASive Lates: REIGN SUPREME
When: Thursday 21 June 2018, 6-9pm
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Tickets to MAASive Lates events are free but limited. Ages 18+ Entry to Reigning Men $5
Website: To register for tickets visit www.maas.museum/event/maasive-lates-reign-supreme
Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/eeb7q4a4umr05pj/AADv_tFdzuK20aFEz9-9tuIMa?dl=0

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

For media enquiries contact Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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APRIL

STAR WARS^TM Identities: The Exhibition LANDS IN SYDNEY — Tickets on sale 4 May 2018

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maas
There will be no need to travel to a galaxy far, far away for the ultimate Star Wars^TM experience, with the Australian premiere exhibition of STAR WARS^TM Identities to open at the Powerhouse Museum this November.

Developed and produced by X3 Productions in collaboration with Lucasfilm Ltd, the exhibition has been secured exclusively for Sydney by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, in partnership with the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS).

Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said the Star Wars franchise is a cultural phenomenon and the exhibition will attract both domestic and international visitors.

“With millions of Star Wars fans around Australia and the world, we expect the exhibition will attract more than 70,000 overnight visitors to Sydney and inject approximately $16 million into the NSW visitor economy,” Mr Marshall said.

“STAR WARS™ Identities is an interactive and educational exhibition experience that will feature 200 original objects used in the making of the blockbuster Star Wars movies, including 12 that have never been seen before.

“The exhibition has been seen by more than 1.8 million people in Canada, the UK and Europe and goes well beyond the usual movie props exhibit, holding broad appeal for both avid fans and those new to cinema’s most famous saga.”

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said the exhibition would be a must-visit for all fans.

“Including a stunning collection of Star Wars costumes, models, props and artwork, STAR WARS™ Identities is a world-class exhibition that will delight Star Wars fans both young and old,” Mr Harwin said.

MAAS Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dolla Merrillees said the exhibition is an opportunity to delve beyond the films and memorabilia.

“As Australia’s only museum of applied arts and sciences MAAS is the perfect venue to exclusively display STAR WARS Identities, an exhibition that celebrates the intersections of imagination, technology and identity.”

“STAR WARS Identities explores the science behind identity, drawing upon the expertise of neuropsychologists, psychologists and biochemists. The exhibition invites visitors to discover how your origins, influences and choices shape the force within you and determine your identity,” Ms Merrillees said.

STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition will open at the Powerhouse Museum on 16 November 2018 and run until 10 June 2019. Tickets on sale 4 May 2018 at ticketek.com.au

MEDIA CONTACT:

Eli Wallis, MAAS T: 0402 359 016 E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

EXHIBITION DETAILS

What: STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition
When: 16 November 2018 – 10 June 2019
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: $23 Child, $32 Concession, $36 Adult and $95 Family (includes general admission)
Website: https://ma.as/starwarsidentities
Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/u2ia17vo02ed4yl/AAAPZFfnuzQyyyf9wdedmMIma?dl=0

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

About STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition
STAR WARS Identities will place the visitor at the centre of the exhibition experience with an interactive identity quest that spans the duration of the visit. Closely interwoven with the collection and the educational content, this unique interactive experience will use technology to help visitors of all ages create their own personal and original Star Wars identity by incorporating elements of their own identity with fictional elements. Visitors will then leave with their own unique character inspired by the Star Wars universe and with a deeper understanding of the exhibition’s central theme.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About X3 Productions
X3 Productions is a Montreal-based company who has extensive expertise to offer turnkey project solutions that reflect the challenges faced by museums around the world. X3 Productions is committed to redefining the modern museum experience by developing and promoting interactive blockbuster touring museum exhibitions. With a focus on creating innovative concepts, gathering unique collections and developing content driven experiences, X3 aims to provide a new kind of museum experience, one that engages, educates and entertains visitors in innovative ways. For more information, visit x3productions.ca.

About Star Wars
The May 25, 1977 theatrical debut of Star Wars – on a scant 32 screens across America – was destined to change the face of cinema forever. An instant classic and an unparalleled box office success, the rousing “space opera” was equal parts fairy tale, western, 1930s serial and special effects extravaganza, with roots in mythologies from cultures around the world. From the mind of visionary writer/director George Lucas, the epic space fantasy introduced the mystical Force into the cultural vocabulary, as well as iconic characters such as evil Darth Vader, idealistic Luke Skywalker, feisty Princess Leia, lovable scoundrel Han Solo and wise Obi-Wan Kenobi. Since its 1977 debut, Star Wars has continued to grow, its lush narrative expanding from modest beginnings into an epic, six-film Saga chronicling the fall and redemption of The Chosen One, Anakin Skywalker.

About Lucasfilm Ltd.
Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company’s activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary Star Wars and Indiana JonesTM franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.
Lucasfilm, the Lucasfilm logo, STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates.© & TM 2018 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.

About the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art will be a first-of-its kind institution, designed to serve as the country’s premiere venue for understanding the connections and lineage of illustrative and visual art. Conceived by George Lucas, the museum is based in the filmmaker’s passion for education and the role art can play in inspiring young people. The museum will offer state-of-the-art facilities and unparalleled programming for children, families, schools, scholars, and visiting artists. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art’s collection ranges from fine art to animation, from fashion to cinematic design and is comprised of works of the great masters of the Golden Age of Illustration through today’s digital artists, showing the ways culture is reflected in the popular art of any given time.

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STAR WARS MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU – ULTIMATE FAN WEEKEND

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Star Wars fans will descend on the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney this year for the Star Wars Ultimate Fan Weekend. In celebration of the annual ‘May the 4th Be With You’ fan day, the Museum and The Walt Disney Company Australia will host a large-scale event over the weekend of May 5th and 6th.

From Friday May 4th, a 1:1 scale X-wing Resistance fighter will land outside the Museum and over weekend, the Star Wars universe will come alive throughout the Museum with Jedi Training, character appearances, costume competitions, augmented reality experiences, coding workshops, games and more.

MAAS Director and CEO, Dolla Merrillees, said, “For over four decades Star Wars has been the pop culture expression of where science meets imagination. If the craft from Star Wars were actual space ships they would certainly be on display at the Powerhouse Museum! The MAAS collection does include rare, original Star War merchandise that we are excited to be putting on display. We are delighted to welcome fans to the Museum for the Star Wars Ultimate Fan Weekend.”

Star Wars Ultimate Fan Weekend highlights

• Jump in the cockpit of a 1:1 scale X-wing Resistance fighter
• Experience the thrill of an augmented reality lightsaber duel with Lenovo’s Star Wars: Jedi Challenges
• Repair BB-8 and friends in the virtual reality story, Star Wars: Droid Repair Bay
• Hone your lightsaber technique and don training robes with Jedi Experience
• Bring BB-8, BB-9E and R2-D2 to life with hands-on Sphero coding classes
• See Star Wars collector’s items from the MAAS collection
• Join talks and panels with Star Wars fans and commentators
• View screenings of both fan-made and official Star Wars content
• Capture selfies with life-size character statues (including Chewbacca!)
• Let the kids loose in space in the themed playground
• Sign up for coding workshops and costume competitions
• Lots more to be announced!

The ultimate Star Wars experience will spill out onto the forecourt of the Museum and into the evening when the Museum is open on Saturday night for an adults-only evening.

May the Fourth be with you!

Event: Star Wars Ultimate Fan Weekend
Dates: 9am – 6pm, Saturday 5 May & Sunday 6 May; 7pm – 10pm, Saturday 5 May (adults only)
Tickets: Bookings essential: $15 adults, $8 concession, Members and children under 16 free with a reserved ticket.
starwarsfanweekend.eventbrite.com
Address: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris St, Ultimo NSW 2007
Website: maas.museum/event/star-wars-ultimate-fan-weekend/
Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/fkgcyjke478rms4/AADLrDNHFaDmOF7p_TL8D4oia?dl=0

MEDIA CONTACT:
Eli Wallis, MAAS eli.wallis@maas.museum +61 402 359 016

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences founded in 1879 has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About May The 4th
May 4th is a day Star Wars fans have chosen to celebrate and honour all-things-Star-Wars, be it by posting Star Wars related content to social media, hosting Star Wars screening parties, wearing Star Wars costumes and clothing, or shopping for Star Wars merchandise.

Why May 4th? Because, as it happens, fans invented a clever turn of phrase based on the classic Star Wars slogan “May the Force Be With You” back in 1978: “May the FOURTH Be With You”. While originally invoked among US fans as a Fourth of July greeting, it was reset to May 4th the following year when a full-page ad appeared in the May 4, 1979 issue of The London Evening News to congratulate British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher on her taking office that day: “May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations!”

Since then, and especially in recent years, Star Wars fans have claimed May 4th as their day, a day that has also given Lucasfilm an opportunity to give back to the Star Wars community that honours that galaxy far, far away.

Since 2012, Lucasfilm has encouraged May the 4th activities through its official website and social channels as well as provided built-in discounts and special offers on Star Wars merchandise. And since “May the 4th Be With You” doesn’t carry the same witty punch when translated into other languages, “Star Wars Day” has been adopted to establish a global meaning for this annual worldwide celebration.

For more information on the history of Star Wars Day, check out this article on StarWars.com: http://www.starwars.com/news/gearing-up-for-may-the-4th-and-with-good-reason

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REIGNING MEN fashion exhibition and ANNUAL SEMINAR SERIES exclusive to Powerhouse Museum

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Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015 opens exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, from 2 May – 14 October 2018. Presented in partnership with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Reigning Men is the world’s largest exhibition of men’s fashion. It features some of the most iconic examples of menswear spanning over 300 years and traversing the globe.

As part of the exhibition programming MAAS has also announced an annual MAAS Creative Industries seminar series and supported by City of Sydney and Etihad Airways. Industry Threads will host quarterly seminars that bring together the Australian creative industries to hear from international speakers and local success stories. The first seminar, Industry Threads: First Edition, will focus on the fashion industry and take place on 3 May at the Powerhouse Museum. By invitation only, it will bring together industry, designers, students, trend makers and forecasters. Speakers will be announced for Industry Threads seminars open to the public in August and December.

About Industry Threads

Australian fashion stalwarts Glynis Traill-Nash and Damien Woolnough will host the Industry Threads seminars. International guest Justin O’Shea will present a keynote talk at the inaugural seminar, sharing his journey from Toowoomba to the global fashion stage; how he got his start in fashion, his experiences as Buying Director of mytheresa.com and Creative Director of Brioni; and the creation of his own fashion label SSS World Corp.

Two panel discussions will address current topics addressing the Australian fashion market; The Fashion Economy and Men as a Market. Panel members include designer Rebecca Vallance and fashion photographer and blogger Lee Oliveira.

MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees said “Australian fashion used to be siloed from the international market geographically and by a climate at odds with the Northern Hemisphere. The popularity of ready to wear collections in recent decades and the emergence of internet shopping have combined to give Australian designers a global platform. MAAS is committed to championing Australian design and bringing together leading industry voices,” said Ms Merrillees.

As part of the Seminar series, MAAS will launch the Etihad Airways Mentorship, a one-on-one session for an emerging designer to gain industry insights from leading fashion practitioners. The mentorship will be offered to a selected designer from the MAAS Student Fashion exhibition, on display at the Powerhouse Museum from 30 March to 8 September 2018.

Etihad Airways General Manager Australia and New Zealand, Sarah Built, said: “Etihad Airways has a strong connection to fashion, sharing attributes of being ambitious, innovative and remarkable, and we’re very proud of our history supporting and mentoring the emerging talent of Australia’s fashion industry. The Etihad Airways Mentorship programme is the perfect platform for us to contribute to the ongoing development of the industry and ensure up and coming designers have the resources they need to reach their full potential. This is a great example of our commitment to strategic collaborative growth, forging strong and lasting partnerships on every level.”

About Reigning Men

Presented by the MAAS Centre for Fashion, the exhibition features over 130 outfits ranging from extravagant silks worn by 18th century aristocrats to the flawless tailoring of 19th century dandies to renowned fashion brands including Tom Ford, Raf Simons, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Craig Green, Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, Comme des Garçons, Giorgio Armani, Jean Paul Gaultier, Dries Van Noten, Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent.

MAAS Director and CEO, Dolla Merrillees, said, “Globally menswear is enjoying a renaissance the likes of which hasn’t been seen for generations. Reigning Men both contextualises this trend and celebrates contemporary designers forging the way into the future of this often-overlooked market.”

The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. MAAS has been collecting fashion since 1883 and its holdings now comprise over 30,000 objects, from garments and fabric samples from the nation’s top fashion exports to patterns, sketches, accessories and fashion photography. As part of Reigning Men highlights of this collection will be on display in Australian Men’s Style.

A program of events and talks will accompany the exhibition. Highlights include monthly curator tours that delve into the historical context of men’s style and a panel conversation Reigning Men: Pomp & Pragmatism on 2 May that will explore the background to LACMA’s extraordinary fashion collection and the curation of this landmark exhibition.

Reigning Men is the latest exhibition presented by the MAAS Centre for Fashion, following Love Is… Australian Wedding Fashion in 2017, Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life in 2016 and Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced in 2015. In December 2018 the MAAS Centre for Fashion will present a survey of innovative Australian designer Akira Isogawa. Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015 will be presented at the Powerhouse Museum from 2 May to 14 October 2018.

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What: Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015
When: 2 May – 14 October 2018
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: $20 Adult $13 Concession (includes general admission) Members and Children under 16 free
Website maas.museum/event/reigning-men-fashion-in-menswear-1715-2015/

SEMINAR DETAILS
Event: MAAS Creative Industries Seminar
Dates: Industry Threads: First Edition 3 May 2018
Price: By invitation only. August and December public programs to be announced
Address: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Website: https://maas.museum/event/centreforfashion

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Natalia Muller, MCM PR T: 0401 656 315 E: natalia@mcmpr.com.au
Eli Wallis, MAAS T: 0402 359 016 E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About The Centre for Fashion. The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

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MARCH

teamLab FUTURE PARK
Final weeks. Must close 30 April 2018
Last chance to explore an immersive world delighting over 100,000 visitors to date
Exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney

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Sydney, Australia: It is the last weeks to see teamLab’s Future Park, Sydney’s most popular exhibition for families, with over 100,000 visitors to date, closing 30 April 2018. Featuring eight interactive light installations never seen in Australia, Future Park is the latest exhibition by Japanese art collective teamLab and exclusively at the Powerhouse Museum.

As the first teamLab interactives to come to Australia, Future Park is a playground for children and adults alike that brings together science and imagination to create collaborative artworks that change and evolve each day. Visitors are swept into jungles of dreamt-up forests, compose symphonies, build cities and invent animals and people of the future, with over 400,000 creations scanned in by visitors to date, from cars and UFOs to buildings, lizards, butterflies and their own likeness in order to create avatars.

Make the most of Family Sundays, every Sunday until 8 April, where families are invited to explore the future through the eyes of an architect, artist or designer with hands-on activities that combine art and science to create digital designs. These days are an exciting opportunity for families and friends to work together in a relaxed and creative environment with a range of activities, performances and storytelling that will allow families to hone their creative skills.

Kids can enjoy the exhibition during the April school holidays with the popular program Tinkertoreum, encouraging kids to engage with various challenges through play. Build your own car and test it out on our track or explore and interact with the architectural commission Four Periscopes. Visitors will be able to work together to explore the installation, learning about light, reflection and periscope building with this giant overhead visual maze. Make your own periscope to take home.

About Future Park

Future Park features eight installations that evolve in real time as they respond to human interactions with the art. Visitors will have the opportunity to make music with Light Ball Orchestra as balls small and large, suspended and rolling connect with each other to create a live composition. This ever-changing symphony is combined with a light show as the balls change colour as they interact. Graffiti Nature – Mountains and Valleys creates a magical digital environment to be populated by visitor drawings of animals and plants. Witness a colourful world grow from a shared vision of what was, what is and what could be. Hopscotch for Geniuses gives a new, digital twist to one of the world’s oldest games. Part interactive dance, part traditional hopscotch, this is a game that will keep people on their toes. Sketch Town invites visitors to populate a town of their collective imagination by drawing vehicles, buildings and public places. As Sketch Town grows its creators can interact with the townscape they have designed.

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What: Learn & Play! teamLab Future Park
When: Now until 30 April 2018
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Adults $28 Concession $22 Children $17.30 Family Pass $74, Members and kids under 4 free.
Tickets available from Ticketek
Website www.maas.museum/event/future-park/

Family Sundays
When: Every Sunday until 8 April 2018, 10am – 5pm
Website: https://maas.museum/whats-on/

Tinkertoreum
When: 14 – 30 April 2018
Website: https://maas.museum/event/tinkertoreum/

Visual assets available for viewing and download here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/931yb8zkcbzfpa0/AAAClQk2DjCGRaGXMnDWJBBCa?dl=0

MEDIA CONTACTS
Claire Martin, Articulate 0414 437 588, Claire@articulatepr.com.au
Jasmine Hersee, Articulate 0406 649 393, jasmine@articualtepr.com.au
Eli Wallis, MAAS 0402 359 016 eli.wallis@maas.museum

About teamLab
teamLab is a collective, interdisciplinary creative group that brings together professionals from various fields of practice in the digital society: artists, programmers, engineers, CG animators, mathematicians, architects, web and print graphic designers and editors. Referring to themselves as ultratechnologists, the group aims to go beyond the boundaries between art, science, technology and creativity, through co-creative activities.
https://www.teamlab.art/

teamLab on Future Park: Digital art allows our bodies to become more immersed in the artwork than ever before. The medium can be transformative and the intentional movement and behavior of people can cause visual changes in the artworks. As a viewer walks freely through an art space, the artworks transform based on his or her behavior and movement. Viewers are able to experience art in a new way—through movement, interaction, and collaboration.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences founded in 1879 has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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2018 SYDNEY SCIENCE FESTIVAL

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The popular Sydney Science Festival is back in 2018. Now in its fourth year, the Festival will take place at venues across Sydney from 7 – 19 August 2018. Expressions of interest are now open for event organisers. The 2017 Festival saw almost 600 scientists and science educators present their work and expertise at 180 events attended by over 70,000 people.

The 2018 Sydney Science Festival program spans cultural venues, galleries, universities, businesses, research institutions and community groups and takes place during National Science Week. Sydney Science Festival is produced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, Australian Museum with support from Inspiring Australia.

MAAS Director and CEO, Dolla Merrillees, “Sydney Science Festival has grown in size and breadth of programming over its first three years. This city-wide celebration of science brings people together to discover, learn, experiment, wonder, perform and create all in the name of Australian ingenuity and daring. I encourage people and organisations to get involved at the ground level with this growing festival.”

The fourth Sydney Science Festival promises to be an action-packed 13 days showcasing the work of many inspirational scientists and science educators. Audience favourites are set to return in 2018 including family day Super Science Saturday at the Australian Museum and adults only night MAASive Lates: Science at the Powerhouse Museum.

The MAAS Centre for STEAM explores the intersection of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics through exhibitions, talks and education programs. As part of the Festival an extensive education program will also be on offer, with over 50 education organisations participating across STEAM subject curriculum-linked interactive workshops and classes for schools across NSW.

Organisations or individuals interested in being a part of the 2018 festival program are invited to submit an expression of interest by 13 April 2018. The full Sydney Science Festival program will be announced in June.

Sydney Science Festival
7 – 19 August 2018
Expressions of Interest close on 13 April 2018 https://sydneyscience.com.au/2018/expressions-of-interest/
Images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/fjfqf71elm7q653/AACPu7Bt6RcivIH-5yPi5g84a?dl=0
Video footage available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0irttHEafk&feature=youtu.be

Follow Sydney Science Festival on:
Website: www.sydneyscience.com.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sydneysciencefestival
Twitter: @SydScienceFest

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Eli Wallis, MAAS eli.wallis@maas.museum +61 402 359 016
Claire Vince, Australian Museum Claire.Vince@austmus.gov.au +61 468 726 910

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MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE SENIORS DAY 2018

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The Museums Discovery Centre (MDC) in Castle Hill will join the NSW Seniors Festival for the first time in 2018, presenting a full day of events and activities to celebrate the annual festival. MDC Seniors Day will take place on 11 April.

The MDC is home to objects from the state collection from the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, the Australian Museum and Sydney Living Museums. It houses everything from rare butterflies to yachts and is responsible for the care of millions of NSW stories.

Highlights of the MDC Seniors Day include:
• Take a walk down memory lane with free entry for one day only
• Get an insider’s view of the Deep Stores. Choose from a Transport Tour or Australian Social History Tour to see how objects are stored and learn fascinating behind-the-scenes museum secrets
• Enjoy fascinating talks by museum curators
• Delight, challenge and inspire your inner kid in a digital workshop to learn 21st Century skills such as
creating interactive clothing and wearable technology
• Discover the collection and join a museum volunteer in a Highlight Tour
• Imagine and create with new innovative Microsoft HoloLens technology
• Finish your day in the Yarn Up Talking Place for some damper and goolie-gum (golden syrup)

MDC Seniors Day is part of the NSW Seniors Festival, an annual event celebrating its 60th birthday in 2018. With the theme ‘Let’s do more together’, the festival promotes inclusive communities and provides an opportunity for seniors to try new things, share skills, contribute, and remain active and engaged in their local communities. The NSW Seniors Festival is the largest festival for people over 60 in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting up to 500,000 seniors across the state. Hundreds of events at venues across NSW will inspire seniors to eat well, stay active and connect with their local community. The festival runs for 12 days from Wednesday 4 April to Sunday 15 April 2018.

NSW Seniors Festival is presented by the Department of Family and Community Services. For the latest updates and event listings visit http://www.seniorsfestival.nsw.gov.au

Event: Museums Discovery Centre Seniors Day
Dates: Wednesday 11 April 2018, 10am – 5pm (last entry at 4pm)
Tickets: free entry for one day only. See website for ticketed events.
Address: Museums Discovery Centre, 172 Showground Road Castle Hill
Website: museumsdiscoverycentre.com

For more information please contact
Michelle Arnold, MAAS Michelle.Arnold@maas.museum 02 9217 0368
Eli Wallis, MAAS eli.wallis@maas.museum +61 402 359 016

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About the Museums Discovery Centre The Museums Discovery Centre (MDC) is a collaboration between the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australian Museum (AM) and Sydney Living Museums. Inside the Museums Discovery Centre you will find millions of treasures, with hundreds on display for you to explore, and thousands more waiting to be discovered through booked tours of the deep collection stores. A visit to the MDC also provides you with a rare opportunity to learn about museum collecting, conservation and research practices.

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AGREEMENT REACHED WITH PSA

Following a detailed 12-month process, the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Department of Planning and Environment and the Public Service Association (PSA) are pleased to have reached an agreement regarding the appropriate classification of the Museum’s casual visitor services officers.

This result is a welcome outcome for all parties who have been involved in the resolution of this matter over the last year.

Visitor services officers play an integral part in delivering exemplary visitor experience across the Museum’s three venues, and are a valued part of the MAAS workforce.

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FEBRUARY

STUDENTS WITH DESIGNS ON THE FUTURE
HSC design exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum

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Ahead of the annual Sydney Design Festival next month, a showcase of the best design projects from 2017 HSC graduates will be on display at Shape 2017, opening at the Powerhouse Museum on 23 February.

Shape 2017 showcases the innovative projects of 39 students from across NSW. Works on display are drawn from three HSC design subjects, and include a smart watch designed for coping with anxiety, a medical aid for hand tremors, swimwear designed for women who have undergone mastectomies, a portal beach anchor and a smart mirror with display functionality.

Director of the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences, Dolla Merrillees said “One of the key responsibilities of the Museum is inspiring and equipping young people to be the next generation of innovators in the critical disciplines of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, which we champion through our Centre for STEAM. Shape is an annual exhibition that epitomizes this commitment. In addition to seeing their creations on display in the Museum the students have their works shared with their peers across NSW, from school visits to the Museum to video conference seminars offered to regional schools across the state. It is exciting to witness the next generation of designers pushing Australian ingenuity in new directions and to celebrate these future innovators.

NSW Education Standards Authority CEO, David de Carvalho, said “Now in its third year, Shape is about turning great ideas into reality. The students demonstrate ingenuity and excellent technical and practical skills. As future innovators these HSC students have succeeded both in the process of designing the project and their final created projects. For the students, displaying their projects in the Powerhouse Museum elevates them from a school project to works worthy of museum display. This partnership represents an important step in the students’ journey from school to industry.”

Students were selected for inclusion in the showcase based on their innovative approaches as well as their exploration of issues facing their generation. In the Textiles and Design category Bowraville Central School student Megan Johnstone designed a 1920s ‘flapper’ dress inspired by pioneering Australian fashion label Zimmerman and using a surprising natural dying technique. “I handmade and dyed the tassels with avocado skins, which are a natural, colour fast dye source. This experimentation was innovative and environmentally friendly as well as being interesting and exciting,’ said Ms Johnstone. For his project ‘The Tree,’ Design and Technology student Nicholas Mooney combined 2D and 3D animation, modelling, sound techniques and virtual reality to design an educational infographic about the impact the human race is having on trees.

Shape 2017 is enhanced by a seminar program for students in year 11 and 12. The seminar program, available onsite at the Powerhouse Museum and across Australia via video conference, takes learners on a deep dive into the factors driving project excellence and include engagement with industry professionals through talks, reflections from HSC examiners, and a skill-sharing expo.

Shape 2017 23 February – 6 May 2017
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Admission: Free with general admission: $15 adult, $8 concession, kids under 16 years free
Bookings: (02) 9217 0111 www.maas.museum

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016
NESA: Michael Charlton | Michael.Charlton@bostes.nsw.edu.au | 0477 362 546

Background to Shape
Shape 2017 has been developed by NSW Education Standards Authority in partnership with the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS). Shape is one of NESA’s eight HSC showcases that celebrate excellence across Creative Arts and Technology subjects in the HSC. The other showcases are: ARTEXPRESS, Texstyle, InTECH, OnStage, Callback, Encore and WordeXpress. For NESA’s eight showcases, including Shape, 441 students were selected from more than 2000 students who met the guidelines and were nominated having received the highest marks possible for their project or performance.

Shape 2017 seminars
Year 12 seminars: Monday, 26 February to Friday, 2 March 2018
Year 11 seminars: Monday, 12 March to Friday, 16 March 2018
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Admission: $34 per learner. Bookings through NESA
Regional schools can now join in the Shape seminars remotely via MAAS Video Conference Technology.
Tuesday, 6 March 2018: Fashion Design
Wednesday, 7 March 2018: Designing Out Crime
Thursday, 8 March 2018: Game Design
Admission: Video Conferences $180 per class. Bookings: book@maas.museum (02) 9217 0222

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About the MAAS Centre for STEAM
In a rapidly changing world, science and arts literacy can empower society by providing the skills needed to excel in the 21st Century, to make informed decisions and to meet the demands of tomorrow’s world. In collaboration with industry leaders, educators, researchers, students and the public, the MAAS Centre for STEAM presents exhibitions, engaging learning programs, dynamic public events and scholarly inquiry.
About The Centre for Fashion
The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

Shape 2017 case studies

Design and Technology
Matilda Trebilcock’s ‘Nesting Box’ project addresses the conservation of bird nesting environments through safe at-home installation design. The installation of a bird nesting box typically involves climbing an unstable ladder carrying the large, heavy box in one hand and tools in the other. Using engineering principles, Matilda designed a system where no climbing is necessary. Telescopic poles and a pulley system lift the nesting box, and a clamp operated from the ground attaches it to the tree. Boxes can be installed up to seven metres high, exceeding current standards of three metres. Matilda said “There were no existing ideas to base my prototype on so I had to rely solely on my imagination.”

Textiles and Design
Megan Kennett’s costume design ‘Why Risk It?’ expresses her love for the countryside, and her fears for damage to the Liverpool Plains through mining. The back straps in earthy colours of red and brown convey possible damage to the land, the V-neck represents the expanse of the open cut pits, while the swimmer print conjures up the threatened aquifer. The raincoat back, curved like the food bowl, shows canola and wheat, and the contrasting strips of vinyl, reflective tape and binding directly refer to the safety jackets of miners. Megan said “I had to balance my inspiration with the constraints of designing and making a wearable garment.”

Industrial Technology
Sarah Hassett’s invention ‘Industria – the Solar Bag’ solves the common problem of mobile devices running out of battery in an environmentally responsible way. The wireless, solar-powered charging feature has efficient conversion rates and low charging times. An application monitors the phone’s battery and records energy use and energy creation over time. This constant flow of information educates the user and promotes sustainability. Sarah said “Due to my love of physics, the most enjoyable component was the wiring as I could apply my theoretical knowledge to a practical application.”

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JANUARY

SYDNEY DESIGN FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS ANNOUNCED

A raft of international speakers and a new design exhibition have been announced for the Sydney Design Festival, running from 2 – 11 March 2018 at Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences and associated venues throughout Greater Sydney. Curated and produced by MAAS around the theme of Call to Action, this year’s Festival will examine the expansion of design disciplines across materials technology and sustainable production, design-led community engagement, digital communication and speculative practice.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director and CEO, Dolla Merrillees said “Sydney Design Festival is about bringing together the best of design practices and practitioners from around the world to celebrate, and examine future directions of the industry. From architects to interior designers, social researchers to industrial designers, this year’s festival is shaping up to be a truly cross-disciplinary program of thought-leaders addressing global issues.” said Ms Merrillees.

The Festival will open with a new design exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum. Common Good explores design trends in Australia and neighbouring regions and the positive design-lead responses to social, ethical and environmental challenges.

Tim Ross, comedian, writer, TV personality and design enthusiast, will also curate his first exhibition as part of Sydney Design Festival. Design Nation will celebrate the ingenuity of Australian design, showcasing Ross’ picks of Australia’s most iconic, everyday inventions from the Museum’s collection. From the Ford Capri to the famous Stackhat helmet of the 1980s, take a trip down memory lane when Design Nation opens at the Powerhouse Museum on 2 March. Ross will present curator talks on 9 and 10 March.

David Gianotten, managing partner architect of OMA will deliver a keynote address for the Festival at the Powerhouse Museum on 4 March. OMA is best known in Australia for its MPavilion in Melbourne. Other major OMA works include Taipei Performing Arts Centre, the masterplan of Feyenoord City and the New Museum for Western Australia. Join David Gianotten as he shares insights into OMA’s architectural philosophy and practice.

Eisuke Tachikawa, the founder of Japanese design collective NOSIGNER, will share his passion for design solutions to social issues in a talk at the Powerhouse Museum on 5 March.

Zhang Ke, award-winning architect and founder of ZAO/standardarchitecture 标准营造, will give a keynote address delving into his design process at Powerhouse Museum on 6 March. Heralding a new era in Chinese architecture, the ZAO/standardarchitecture studio has designed large-scale works in Shanghai, Beijing and Tibet.

Architect and design researcher Joshua Bolchover will deliver a talk at the Powerhouse Museum on 2 March. Following international accolades for Rural Urban Framework and with 15 projects currently running in villages across China, Bolchover will discuss the power of design in not-for-profit projects.

Designer Pamm Hong will also present her design process on 2 March, including her commission for the Common Good exhibition; the Watermelon Sugar Wellness Lab. Recently listed as one of the Top 20 Disruptors by the Global Futures Forum 2016, Hong’s design approach combines art, science and technology to produce interactive digital works.

Good Natured brings together Waverley Council’s best and brightest creatives for an afternoon of short talks on 3 March. Hosted by Superlocalstudio in Bondi and curated by Liane Rossler, hear from The Organic Tea Project, Jennifer Kwok, The Republic of Everyone, Julia Champtaloup and Valentina Zarew as they discuss how nature informs their design processes.

Join a panel of designers and social researchers to discuss The Dangers of Empathy on 6 March at Freda’s in Chippendale. The panel will explore the role of empathy in designing solutions in sectors such as financial services and government.

With fewer than 10% of Wikipedia editors being women, Hack the Canon: Women in Design Wikipedia-edit-a-thon is a step towards addressing this huge gender imbalance. Be a part of the solution and get editing at St Peters Library on 10 March.

The full Sydney Design Festival program will be announced on 29 January 2018.

Sydney Design Festival
2 – 11 March 2018
www.sydneydesign.com.au

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum
Freya Lombardo, ARTICULATE T: 0403 162 220 E: freya@articulatepr.com.au
Images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tqmpf0sz6vzx4yb/AAD0IXr0SZn8QeS3Mk-pcS6Ka?dl=0

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences

Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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NOVEMBER

Architectural commission at Powerhouse Museum announced for Sydney Design Festival

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The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) has announced emerging Australian architecture studio TRIAS will create the first annual Turbine Hall Commission at the Powerhouse Museum to be unveiled as part of the 20th Sydney Design Festival on 1 March 2018.

The installation titled Four Periscopes will consist of four towers – evocative of Sydney’s skyscrapers – filled with a series of periscopic mirrors suspended above the ground, inviting visitors to look up inside them, the reflections connecting people from the balconies to the ground floor, and from one tower to another. Visible from all levels of the Museum, TRIAS’s winning work is a playful installation intended to evoke curiosity, encourage interaction and inspire engagement.

Made possible by a generous anonymous donor, this new, three-year annual commission is the first of its kind in Australia and offers emerging and established architectural and design talent the opportunity to design and present innovative projects for the unique Powerhouse Museum Turbine Hall site.

MAAS Director Dolla Merrillees said “MAAS takes seriously its commitment to support and profile the Australian design community. This architectural commission is an Australian first, and we are pleased to have worked with a panel of industry leaders in selecting TRIAS for the first of the three commissions. Their site-specific design provides yet another reason to visit the Museum during the 20th year of the Sydney Design Festival.”

TRIAS Director Jennifer McMaster said: “One of the primary purposes of architecture is to bring people together – to frame and contain space in a manner that allows human connections to flourish. This installation highlights the importance of communicating within our ‘commons’ by encouraging museum-goers to – quite literally – reflect and connect with one another.”

The towers in Four Periscopes will be made from sustainable cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels and their measurements relate to a series of statistics around the amount of space people have to live around the world. Australia currently has the largest average house size in the world, with 90 square metres of space per person. Meanwhile the footprint of each tower (2.4m x 2.4m) roughly corresponds to the amount of space that the average resident in Mumbai is afforded and the heights of the towers loosely equate to the average space a typical person occupies within four South-East Asian cities – Beijing (10m2), Manila (12m2), Ho Chi Minh (18m2) and Osaka (20m2).

The project was selected by a panel of industry experts including Joe Agius (Agius Architects), William Smart (Smart Design Studio),
Cameron Bruhn (Architecture AU Media),
Dr Joanne Jakovich (UTS Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building), Stephen Todd (Design Editor, Financial Review),
Sophie Harrington (MAAS),
Emily McDaniel (MAAS),
Keinton Butler (MAAS),
and Peter Denham (MAAS)

Four Periscopes opens as part of the Sydney Design Festival 2018, an annual celebration of design with over 100 events at venues across Sydney from 2 – 11 March 2018. The installation will remain on view in the Turbine Hall until 28 January 2019.

INSTALLATION DETAILS
What: Four Periscopes
When: 1 March 2018 – 28 January 2019
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Included in general admission

Sydney Design Festival
2 – 11 March 2018
Full program to be announced in January 2018
https://sydneydesign.com.au/2018/

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Freya Lombardo ARTICULATE T: 0403 162 220 E: freya@articulatepr.com.au
Kym Elphinstone ARTICULATE T: 0421 106 139 E: kym@articulatepr.com.au
Eli Wallis MAAS T: 0402 359 016 E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About TRIAS
TRIAS is an emerging architecture studio based in Sydney, Australia. Since its establishment in 2016, TRIAS has quickly developed a reputation for thoughtful and thorough design work. The studio is founded on three principles: to create buildings that are solid, simple and beautiful. These ideals tie our work to the origins of architecture, which Vitruvius defined as firmness, commodity and delight.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences founded in 1879 has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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COMMON GOOD Design exhibition exclusive to Powerhouse Museum

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The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) will open a major contemporary design exhibition on 2 March 2018 to celebrate the 20th Sydney Design Festival. Curated by and exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, Common Good explores design trends in Australia and neighbouring regions and the positive design-lead responses to social, ethical and environmental challenges.

“Design practice is constantly evolving, reacting to the challenges of its time. With Common Good we examine the place of ground-breaking designers from our region in shaping solutions for our future society,” said MAAS Director and CEO, Dolla Merrillees.

“MAAS is pleased to be working with a new generation of socially-engaged designers from Australia and Asia, to both display and acquire works through this exhibition.”

“The Asia-Pacific is our creative commons. This exhibition is an opportunity to broaden our lens to explore the work and practices of a new generation of designers who are boldly taking action to affect positive change and influence long-term sustainability in our region,” said exhibition curator, Keinton Butler.

Common Good surveys contemporary design practices from Australia and the Asia-Pacific. Designers from a range of disciplines and countries are profiled, including leading international designers and architects Nendo, Studio Swine, Bijoy Jain, Jo Nagasaka, Kwangho Lee and WOHA, as well as globally recognised local designers Ken Wong, Lucy McRae and Henry Wilson.

The exhibition is framed by five themes that address increasingly complex challenges including housing affordability, waste management, population pressures and technological obsessions.

Life Cycles explores emerging sustainable design practices in a reference library of design materials, including those made from industrial and agricultural waste. Award-winning Japanese designers AMAM demonstrate how algae and agar bio-materials can be used in packaging that could ultimately replace non-biodegradable plastics. The Life Cycles resource library will be made available during and beyond the exhibition, contributing to the education of emerging designers.

Return to Craft profiles contemporary designers preserving cultural heritage through collaborative projects with artisans, craftspeople and manufacturers. Crafts such as woodworking, enamelware, ceramics and weaving are being given new relevance when worked by technologically driven designers. For instance, South Korean designer Kwangho Lee is reviving the ancient practice of Ott-chil high-gloss lacquering in projects such as the New Armor stool. Such projects bring fresh attention to otherwise forgotten traditions and can contribute to the survival of centuries-old crafts.

Connected Experiences demonstrate the ability of technology to generate social awareness and influence personal behaviour. In an exclusive commission for MAAS called Watermelon Sugar Wellness Lab, graphic designer and visual artist Pamm Hong invites you into an immersive installation where your online behaviour is transformed into a personalized virtual organism, providing a health check on your digital engagement habits.

Community Engagement explores projects that address social integration and poverty in the face of rapid urbanisation as well as international development initiatives and fully integrated, collaborative design concepts.

Design Fictions considers the role of the designer in shaping our future. Through their speculative and critical design projects, designers are questioning and debating the possible social implications of our scientific and technological developments, through carefully staged fictional scenarios. The Rare Earthenware project by Unknown Fields is the result of an expedition to Inner Mongolia, in which toxic mud was taken from a radioactive rare earth tailings lake and used to craft a set of ceramic vessels into the shape of highly valuable and recognisable Ming dynasty porcelain vases. Each vessel is sized in relation to the amount of waste created in the production of three items of technology: a smartphone, a laptop and an electric car battery cell. Such projects shape our patterns of excessive consumption and waste into powerful statements.

Common Good opens as part of the Sydney Design Festival, an annual celebration of design with over 100 events at venues across Sydney from 2 – 11 March 2018.

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What: Common Good
When: 2 March – 2 December 2018
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Included in general admission
Website www.maas.museum/event/common-good/

Sydney Design Festival
2 – 11 March 2018
Full program to be announced in January 2018
https://sydneydesign.com.au/2018/

Keinton Butler – Senior Curator, MAAS
Keinton Butler is Senior Curator with a focus on design and architecture at MAAS. Keinton recently returned to Australia after ten years in the UK, where she worked as an independent design curator on a wide range of multidisciplinary exhibition projects including exhibitions with Damien Hirst and the British Council. Keinton graduated from Furniture Technology at RMIT University in Melbourne, after studying key developments in furniture production. She holds a Master of Arts in Curating Contemporary Design from the Design Museum in London and Kingston University.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Freya Lombardo ARTICULATE T: 0403 162 220 E: freya@articulatepr.com.au
Kym Elphinstone ARTICULATE T: 0421 106 139 E: kym@articulatepr.com.au
Eli Wallis MAAS T: 0402 359 016 E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences founded in 1879 has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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ART AND SCIENCE COMBINE THIS SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
at the MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES

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Embrace the powers of technology to entertain, educate and inspire these school holidays with a host of events across the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) venues; the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre (MDC). Immerse yourself in the wonders of teamLab’s Future Park exhibition exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum. Dream up, design and build future communities, cars and colonies with the museum’s collection as your inspiration and the chance to win a trip to Japan thanks to Toyota.

Powerhouse Museum

Learn & Play! teamLab Future Park
24 November 2017 – 30 April 2018
Adults $28 Concession $22 Children $17.30 Family Pass $74, Members and kids under 4 free.
Tickets available from Ticketek from 10 November http://premier.ticketek.com.au/
Future Park is a playground that brings together science and imagination. The latest exhibition by Japanese art collective teamLab and the largest ever seen in Australia features eight interactive light installations in their Australian premiere.
Future Park images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/wamt3vlsp8j3pl3/AABjrQeKxEIS_9zttA2UeKUKa?dl=0
FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES CONTACT: Claire Martin, Articulate 0414 437 588, mailto:Claire@articulatepr.com.au

Tinkertoreum
16 December 2017 – 29 January 2018, 10am – 5pm daily, free, Ages 6 – 12
Take your creativity to new heights as you collaborate with other museum visitors to build an installation in the Turbine Hall of the museum. Inspired by Future Park the Tinkertoreum encourages kids to engage with engineering and architecture challenges, design cars and create moveable puppets and figures. Inventors can test their prototypes on a series of ramps and building zones.

Toyota Dream Car Art Contest
onsite 16 Dec – 29 Jan, competition closes 1 March, 10am – 5pm daily, free, all ages
What will transport of the future look like? Toyota invite tomorrow’s engineers, designers and creative thinkers to let their imagination run wild. Design a dream car that makes the world a better place for your chance to win a trip to Japan. Open to children aged 15 and under. Visit toyota.com.au/dreamcar for more information.

Sydney Observatory

Solar Inventions 9 – 12 January
10am – 12pm and 1- 3pm,  $22/$20 per child, Ages 7 – 12
Come learn about the power of the sun and its ability to help with technology in the future. View the sun through our special solar telescopes, make your own solar oven and see how solar energy can be applied in nature and in our day to day lives.

Intergalactic Habitats
15, 22, 23 January 10am – 12pm and 1- 3pm, $22/$20 per child, Ages 7 – 10
Is there life on Mars and what would it look like? How could scientists and astronauts settle on Mars? Explore these ideas as you create your own intergalactic terrariums to take home and ponder the planets.

Museums Discovery Centre

Mini Mechanics
8 – 29 January 2018, 10am – 3pm, Free, Ages 6 – 12
Build your ultimate car of the future, taking inspiration from the museum’s car collection and using tools such as LEGO and Meccano. From inspiration and research through to design and creation and finishing with a test drive your final creation.

Kinetic Kids
10am – 12pm, 18, 19, 22 Jan $22/$20 per child Ages 7 – 10
Create a kinetic toy from scratch and take it home. Experiment with using motors, cogs and pulleys to learn how to make puppets, automata and mobiles. Compare your new toy to generations of toys in the museum’s collection.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES CONTACT: MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

School holiday images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/j3copid840yw0r5/AADAu1hsIhz9RDLhEERR6Z1Ea?dl=0

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OCTOBER

FAITH FASHION FUSION: MUSLIM WOMEN’S STYLE IN AUSTRALIA, MAAS EXHIBITION INTERNATIONAL TOUR

Faith, Fashion, Fusion: Muslim women’s style in Australia, an exhibition exploring the experiences and achievements of Australian Muslim women and how they express their faith through fashion, will be displayed at the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia from 2 November 2017 until 28 January 2018.

The exhibition first appeared at the Powerhouse Museum in 2012 and has since toured extensively across Australia including Melbourne, regional NSW and Western Australia. This is the first time the exhibition has toured internationally and the tour has been made possible by support from the Australian Government through the Australian High Commission Malaysia, the Australian ASEAN Council and the Australia Indonesia Institute and our corporate partner, Lend Lease Projects (M) Sdn Bhd.

Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia, HE Rod Smith PSM, said “Faith, Fashion, Fusion showcases the diversity and openness of Australia’s multicultural society, as well as the excellence of Australia’s creative industries. Australia and Malaysia share a vibrant tradition of creative exchanges and I am sure the exhibition will help to foster greater understanding and deepen the longstanding friendship between our two nations.

MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees said “Faith, Fashion, Fusion presented a wonderful opportunity to celebrate a growing area of the fashion industry. It captured a moment when a new audience emerged and that audience continues to grow and change. The MAAS Centre for Fashion was formed in 2015 to not only record evolving trends but share them with the community. We are proud to take this exhibition to an international audience with the support of the Australian Government.”

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia Director, Syed Mohamad Albukhary said “Faith Fashion, Fusion reflects the everlasting interest in female personal adornment that reflects the elegance, modesty, and ideology of the diverse Muslim community in Australia. What it truly reveals is their embedded cultural heritage and identity. Looking through their success stories and products, images of the opulence costumes of princesses and royalty of Mughal, Safavid, Ottoman and Arabian outfits come to mind, translated into a contemporary and modern setting.”

From the ground-breaking ‘burquini’ swimwear to denim and elegant red carpet dresses, the exhibition explores Australia’s growing modest fashion market and the work of a new generation of Muslim designers and entrepreneurs making a mark on the Australian fashion industry.

The exhibition was developed in consultation with Australian Muslim communities and organisations who generously shared their personal stories and treasured objects, which make the exhibition so emotionally rich and pertinent. Faith, Fashion, Fusion features garments, fashion shoots and interviews with six Sydney-based fashion brands – Baraka Woman, Fay Tellaoui, Hijab House, Integrity Boutique, Ahiida® and Ninety9 by Aida Zein.

The opinions, challenges and achievements of high profile Australian Muslim women are also featured, including academic and media commentator, Susan Carland; author Randa Abdel-Fattah; Australia’s first Muslim surf lifesaver, Mecca Laalaa Hadid; members of the Auburn Giants football team; author Arwa Abousamra; academic Oishee Alam; and mother and daughter Mona and Rayan Marabani.

Additional international venues are expected to be announced to follow the Malaysian exhibition.

Exhibition: Faith, Fashion, Fusion: Muslim women’s style in Australia
Dates: 3 November 2017 – 28 January 2018
Address: Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
Website: https://www.iamm.org.my

For more information please contact Eli Wallis eli.wallis@maas.museum +61 402 359 016

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About The Centre for Fashion. The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

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MAAS CENTRE FOR FASHION TO HOST INAUGURAL BALL

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The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) today announced the inaugural MAAS Centre for Fashion Ball, to take place on 1 February 2018. The MAAS Ball will be a celebration of the Australian fashion industry and will prelude the two MAAS fashion exhibitions for 2018: Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015 and Akira Unsaid.

The MAAS Ball will be presented in partnership with NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER and will be co-hosted by MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees, together with Edwina McCann and Kellie Hush, Co-Chairs of the Australian Fashion Chamber. The MAAS Ball will fundraise for the Australian Fashion Fund, a Centre for Fashion initiative that will secure acquisitions of Australian fashion to strengthen the Museum’s collection for future generations and support the sector via knowledge exchange between the best international talent and the Australian sector.

MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees said “The MAAS Ball brings together the Australian industry to celebrate the ingenuity, vibrancy and legacy of the sector. Fashion in Australia has never been so visible and applauded, from exhibitions celebrating its significance to politicians embracing it as a form of diplomacy. While many events and institutions focus on international designers our focus is on championing and supporting the Australian fashion industry in an international context and through our collection of fashion, arguably the best in the country. We are taking this opportunity to consider the role of the Centre for Fashion in producing and preserving Australian fashion for generations to come,” said Ms Merrillees.

NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER President Alison Loehnis said “Australia has long been a very important market to us which is testament to the deep and abiding passion that Australians have for fashion. We admire the genuine creativity, energy and dedication of Australia in the global fashion community and we are proud to be partnering with MAAS on the Centre for Fashion Ball, supporting the education, preservation and promotion of contemporary fashion while looking towards the future of our industry.”

The Centre for Fashion also plays a vital role in bringing to Australia outstanding examples of fashion and craftsmanship from around the world.

Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015, an exhibition from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), features some of the world’s most iconic menswear designers and will open exclusively in Australia at the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney from 12 May – 14 October 2018.

Akira Unsaid celebrates Akira Isogawa’s unique design process over 25 years in fashion, from his formative years in Kyoto through his journey to Sydney and will open exclusively in Australia at the Powerhouse Museum from 8 December 2018 – 4 May 2019.

In addition to NET A PORTER and MR PORTER, The MAAS Ball is generously supported by time partner IWC Schaffhausen, Bentley Sydney, Bird in Hand and Moet & Chandon.

Event: MAAS Centre for Fashion Ball
Dates: 1 February 2018
Tickets: on sale Monday 16 October, $1,000 per person
Address: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Website: https://maas.museum/event/maas-ball/
Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/71rk8dk4vuti2w7/AACSAn8MuIWQ_WdNT_nKbIoCa?dl=0

For more information please contact Eli Wallis eli.wallis@maas.museum +61 402 359 016

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About The Centre for Fashion. The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

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MAAS is, to a large extent, defined by our organisational vision: to be a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds. This commitment to creativity, open minds and inclusiveness applies not only to the work we undertake but to our culture, our partnerships and our collaborations. MAAS supports the freedom of individual expression and respects the rights of all to express personal views, regardless of differences in opinions. The ability for MAAS to continue to evolve as a creative, cutting-edge, internationally engaged and dynamic Museum is founded on fundamental beliefs of compassion, diversity and inclusion. This postal survey is an opportunity to express these values, and to do so in a respectful and tolerant manner.

On a personal level, we will both be answering ‘yes’ to the question, “should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?” We are personally committed to the values we espouse publicly as President and Deputy President of the MAAS Trust and in our other community-facing roles. Treating all Australians with dignity and respect, and affording them equal rights, recognition and protection under law is a fundamental tenet of any free and open society. This survey is a very important opportunity to affirm that view.

We acknowledge that the circumstances around this survey have the potential to impact on personal wellbeing. Any members of the MAAS community experiencing with personal concerns are encouraged to use the counselling services made available via our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Details are available on the intranet or via the HR team.

Regards
Barney Glover, President and Lisa Chung, Deputy President
MAAS Trust

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SEPTEMBER

WESTERN SYDNEY CODING CLUB launched as part of MAAS 2018 SCHOOLS PROGRAM

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The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) today launched its 2018 Schools Program, aimed at inspiring a life-long engagement for learners across Australia in the subject areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). Through the generous support of the NSW Government, Crown Foundation and the Packer Foundation, schools in Western Sydney will also have the opportunity to access free professional development and coding resources for their classrooms through the newly established Western Sydney Coding Club (WSCC).

The 2018 Schools program features opportunities for learners to participate in self-directed or educator led experiences across the three MAAS venues, the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre at Castle Hill, as well as joining learners and experts from across the country in virtual classrooms for free and on-demand video conferencing programs.

Presented by the MAAS Centre for STEAM, the WSCC will launch in October 2017, providing an entry point for Western Sydney teachers looking for a reliable and tested way to familiarise themselves with coding prior to the introduction of mandatory coding curriculum in 2018. WSCC will use arts and creativity as the vehicle for teaching coding. Through WSCC, 120 schools will be provided with training and resources to learn industry-standard coding using the ThinkerShield, an educational tool created by MAAS. WSCC follows a pilot program earlier this year that successfully taught coding skills to 2,000 learners from over 20 schools across Australia.

MAAS Director and CEO, Dolla Merrillees, said learners will develop coding skills to equip them for the jobs of the future thanks to this initiative. “Coding, and the logic and problem-solving skills it fosters, will be the foundation of the jobs of the future, some of which do not yet exist. In order to equip learners of today to be successful leaders of tomorrow it is imperative they have world-class coding in their curriculum. The MAAS Centre for STEAM is committed to developing learning experiences that combine education, industry and corporate partners to deliver engaging and relevant STEAM experiences for learners,”

In 2018 schools will also have the opportunity to explore curriculum mapped limited-season exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum, participate in the annual Young Creators Conference, join in with the League of Legends learning hub, and be a part of the Sydney Science Festival and Sydney Design Festival. Teachers are also invited to participate in new NESA accredited teacher professional development programs, which focus on coding, physical computing and project-based learning for science.

For more information about the MAAS 2018 Education program please visit https://maas.museum/learn/
For more information about the Western Sydney Coding Club please visit http://thinkershield.maas.museum/wscc

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About ThinkerShield
The MAAS-developed ThinkerShield classroom coding kit is a reusable, thoroughly proven, complete computer-science teaching and learning solution to equip both learners and teachers with the skills to enhance their competency in coding.

About the MAAS Centre for STEAM
In collaboration with industry leaders, educators, researchers, learners and the public, the MAAS Centre for STEAM presents exhibitions, engaging learning programs, dynamic public events and scholarly inquiry. Our goals are to make STEAM relevant and engaging; build skills for the future; provide meaningful collaborations with industry and reveal the wonder of science. By fostering innovation, collaboration, skills development, and public curiosity, the Centre for STEAM spearheads MAAS’ vision of becoming the leading hub for STEAM in Australia.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. Established in 1879, the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects and is uniquely placed to demonstrate how technology, engineering, science and design impact Australia and the world.

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REIGNING MEN EXHIBITION EXCLUSIVE TO POWERHOUSE MUSEUM SYDNEY

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An exhibition from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), featuring some of the world’s most iconic menswear designers will open exclusively in Australia at Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum next year.

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin and Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall today announced the Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2017 exhibition has been secured by the NSW Government and will open in May 2018.

“The MAAS Centre for Fashion is the nation’s first public centre for fashion excellence and provides unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia, as well as presenting the best fashion exhibitions from around the world,” Mr Harwin said.

“Securing this exhibition exclusively for Sydney showcases the city as a dynamic and leading global fashion destination.”

Mr Marshall said it was estimated that Reigning Men would generate more than $1.3 million in overnight visitor expenditure for NSW.

“Reigning Men joins an impressive line-up of major cultural events to be held in Sydney next year including Vivid Sydney and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia and I encourage everyone to start planning their trip to Sydney,” Mr Marshall said.

MAAS Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dolla Merrillees said, “The MAAS Centre for Fashion is committed to championing innovative fashion. Reigning Men is unique in the world of fashion exhibitions, reflecting the often overlooked history of men’s fashion and exploring future trends at a time when men’s style is evolving.”

The exhibition features over 130 garments ranging from extravagant silks worn by 18th century aristocrats, the flawless tailoring of 19th century dandies to renowned fashion brands including Tom Ford, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, Giorgio Armani, Jean Paul Gaultier, Craig Green, Dries Van Noten, Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent.

Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015 will be presented at the Powerhouse Museum from 12 May to 14 October 2018.

MEDIA: George Ober I Minister Harwin I 0417 826 029

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AUGUST

KALDOR PUBLIC ART PROJECTS PROJECT 33 ANRI SALA: THE LAST RESORT PUBLIC PROGRAMS ANNOUNCED

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An inspiring program of events, workshops and talks has been announced to accompany Project 33: Anri Sala’s The Last Resort, at Sydney’s Observatory Hill Rotunda from 13 October – 5 November 2017. The Last Resort is the latest work presented by Kaldor Public Art Projects with a public program developed in partnership with the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS). The program will take place at a number of venues across Sydney during October and November 2017.

The Last Resort is the work of French-Albanian artist Anri Sala, known internationally for his exploration of themes of loss and language through poetic video works, live and recorded performance, installation and sculpture. The Last Resort is a sound and sculpture installation, presented in Sydney’s Observatory Hill Rotunda, reimagining W.A. Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K. 622, with a weather-beaten interpretation and the addition of thirty-eight snare drums. The Last Resort meditates on themes of past and present, colonialism and the Age of Enlightenment, the language of music and the intersection of art, music and sound.

“Anri Sala is a celebrated contemporary artist, creating thought-provoking and exciting works that challenge the way we view place and our shared history. It is a pleasure to have his newest work premiere on Observatory Hill, a site with such rich history. I hope the accompanying public program will allow visitors to Observatory Hill to engage with The Last Resort in unexpected and memorable ways and inspire community discussion,” said MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees.

Public Program Highlights

Artist Anri Sala will present an Artist’s Talk at Sydney Observatory on 14 October in conversation with Maud Page, Deputy Director and Director of Collections, Art Gallery of New South Wales. Sala will share his creative process and the background to The Last Resort.

Sydney Conservatorium of Music will present a performance of Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A major at the Conservatorium on 19 October, with its Early Music Ensemble playing 18th century instruments, under the direction of acclaimed scholar and performer Neal Peres Da Costa.

A panel of expert commentators from the fields of history, astronomy and the visual arts will offer wide-ranging perspectives on the cultural impact of the European Enlightenment at Sydney Observatory on 22 October in Colonialism and the Age of Enlightenment.

Also at Sydney Observatory, UNSW Art & Design will present a panel discussion about Sound and Music in Contemporary Art on 29 October, and on 5 November award-winning broadcaster and composer Andrew Ford will present a lunchtime talk on Music and Memory.

Each Sunday, a series of fun, hands-on family workshops, exploring art, sound and science, and featuring activities such as making your own synthesiser or creating electronic circuits on paper will be presented at Sydney Observatory.

Kaldor Public Art Projects Project 33: The Last Resort
13 October – 5 November 2017
Observatory Hill Rotunda
For further Project 33 details please visit www.kaldorartprojects.org.au/project-33-anri-sala
For further Public Program details please visit http://kaldorartprojects.org.au/events/index

MEDIA CONTACTS:
MAAS Eli Wallis, eli.wallis@maas.museum, 0402 359 016
Kaldor Public Art Projects, please contact Articulate
Claire Martin, Claire@articulatepr.com.au, 0414 437 588
Kym Elphinstone, kym@articulatepr.com.au, 0421 106 139
or Jasmine Hersee, jasmine@articularpr.com.au, 0406 649 393

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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ART AND TECHNOLOGY COMBINE IN POWERHOUSE MUSEUM SUMMER BLOCKBUSTER

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“You interact with it, change it, manipulate it – and it does the same right back to you.” Time Out London on teamLab

Imagination meets technology when Learn & Play! teamLab Future Park, a playful and immersive world for kids and adults alike, comes to Sydney this summer, from 24 November 2017 – 30 April 2018 at the Powerhouse Museum, part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences.

Developed by art collective teamLab, and presented by principal partner, Toyota, Future Park highlights what is possible when fueling teamwork with technology and drawing from science and design to create art.

“Last summer we welcomed six Egyptian mummies from the British Museum in an exhibition that was enjoyed by over 100,000 visitors. This summer we are excited to invite visitors to build a collective artwork, imagining future worlds the ancient Egyptians could only have dreamed of. teamLab is internationally renowned for applying cutting-edge technology to create experiences that elicit wonder and delight and that are different every day,” said MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees.

A collective of ‘ultratechnologists,’ teamLab is one of the most in-demand teams of creatives, whose immersive installations have been sweeping the world with exhibitions currently running in cities across the world including Tokyo, San Francisco, Jakarta, Vancouver, Beijing, Texas and Singapore.

At Future Park inventive visitors young and old will be swept into jungles of dreamt-up forests, compose symphonies, build cities and invent animals and people of the future. Future Park is a dynamic space for people to let their imaginations run wild and take it a step further by seeing them come to life and interact with the imaginings of other visitors.

Learn & Play! teamLab Future Park will be made up of eight interactive installations, each designed to constantly evolve in real time as it responds to human interactions with the art.

● Make music with Light Ball Orchestra as balls small and large, suspended and rolling connect with each other to create a live composition. This ever-changing symphony is combined with a light show as the balls change colour as they interact.
● Graffiti Nature – Mountains and Valleys creates a digital environment to be populated by visitor drawings of animals and plants. Witness a colourful world grow from a shared vision of what was, what is and what could be.
● Sketch Town invites visitors to populate a town of their collective imagination by drawing vehicles, buildings and public places. As Sketch Town grows its creators can interact with the townscape they have designed.
● Hopscotch for Geniuses gives a new, digital twist to one of the world’s oldest games. Part interactive dance, part traditional hopscotch, this is a game that will keep people on their toes.
● A Table Where Little People Live is a busy table populated by tiny characters rushing about their business. Change their paths, create obstacles or interactions with other little people, all by using objects to change the table where little people live.
● Sketch People as you see them, as you want to see them, however you can imagine them. Sketched people will be scanned and entered into a digital world to form relationships and interact.
● Sketch Town Papercraft takes visitor drawings and scans them into 3D sketches that can be printed as 3D models.
● In Connecting! Block Town the digital meets the physical as cars, trains, boats and planes crisscross through projections and change their course when intercepted by building blocks controlled by visitors acting as air traffic controllers, traffic managers and coast guards.

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What: Learn & Play! teamLab Future Park
When: 24 November 2017 – 30 April 2018
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Website www.maas.museum/event/future-park/

Visual assets available for viewing and download here:
● Video highlights: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1gv0e2fru6gsiqs/AAAu_qi2EbzPhosCqUbz4jeYa?dl=0
● Sketch Town: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/x22b7c1gaeol8dd/AABVNjsABt2IpltU9H2TC-ZRa?dl=0
● A Table Where Little People Live: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/7au6pmfd97g7ydx/AADSYepx6CjTHyj0rCZ3HZ4la?dl=0
● Connecting! Block Town: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/8cqhkslaouepjvo/AADF0ak58w7bd6k3b_NdxIH2a?dl=0
● Light Ball Orchestra: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tpc5kiw1kkuah2u/AABP5oDxhVt5tGZ-Zwj1PZ4ma?dl=0
● Hopscotch for Geniuses: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/yk0n5is39fledg2/AABbDXYd2SAOPQRHwYbIwCxFa?dl=0
● Graffiti Nature: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/heesy2x0axg0d9j/AADHrJykRbTOistMSGlHpZAVa?dl=0

MEDIA CONTACTS
Claire Martin, Articulate 0414 437 588, Claire@articulatepr.com.au
Jasmine Hersee, Articulate 0406 649 393, jasmine@articualtepr.com.au
Eli Wallis, MAAS 0402 359 016 eli.wallis@maas.museum

About teamLab
teamLab is a collective, interdisciplinary creative group that brings together professionals from various fields of practice in the digital society: artists, programmers, engineers, CG animators, mathematicians, architects, web and print graphic designers and editors. Referring to themselves as ultratechnologists, the group aims to go beyond the boundaries between art, science, technology and creativity, through co-creative activities.
https://www.teamlab.art/

About Learn and Play! Future Park
Learn and Play! Future Park is an educational project and an experimental field for co-creation (collaborative creation).

teamLab focuses on encouraging changes in the relationships between people in the same space. In order to make the presence of others a positive experience, teamLab hopes that individual creative activities can be transformed into co-creative actions.

Rapid technological development will continue to accelerate into the future and many jobs will be taken over by machines. In a future society, traits that only humans can possess—such as the ability to think and act creatively—will become increasingly more important.

Today, in education and everyday life, however, creativity is suppressed rather than encouraged. Furthermore, many people are addicted to smartphones. Their brains may be connected to someone via the smartphone, but their body remains thoroughly isolated. The opportunity to nurture joint collaborative activity has in this respect decreased.

Humans learn about the world through interaction with others and by sharing experiences. People think with their bodies as they move through the world, and much of human society has developed through creative achievements born from collaboration and collective play. Our hope is that through enjoying this co-creative experience people may become more creative in their everyday lives. This project was born from such a wish.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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SPRING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AT THE MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES

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Kids and their families can use their powers of deduction and observation these school holidays with a host of events across the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) venues; the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre (MDC). This is the last chance to see The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum, closing 8 October. Join fellow junior detectives to track down Sherlock Holmes, missing somewhere in the Powerhouse Museum. Channel your inner Sherlock and Watson as you piece together clues and evidence to uncover the secrets of the universe at Sydney Observatory and join a sleuthing team at Museums Discovery Centre, Castle Hill.

Powerhouse Museum

Hall of Mysteries and Detective Photo Booth 23 September – 8 October, 10am – 5pm daily, free, Ages 5+
Follow your journey through the world of Sherlock Holmes with a visit to the Hall of Mysteries. Kids can try out their newly acquired super sleuthing skills to solve the mystery of the missing detective. Along the way unexpected secrets will be revealed and museum objects discovered. Graduate as a MAAS Junior Detective at the close of the case.

Sydney Observatory

Extravaganza! 4 October, 10.30am – 1:30pm, Children $15, Member child: $13, Ages 4+
Join Sydney Observatory astronomers for a day of space investigation and exploration. Solve space mysteries using your critical eye and see things the naked eye can’t by peering into telescopes and binoculars under the guidance of Observatory sky guides.

Museums Discovery Centre

CSI: Forensic Science 26, 27 September and 4, 5 October, $22, Ages 7 – 10
Budding forensic scientists will team together with experts from Fizzics Education to investigate crimes. Learn the essential skills of fingerprinting, fibre and DNA analysis, blood typing and computerised facial reconstruction.

Junior Detectives: Museum Improbable! 25, 28 September and 2, 3 October, $22, Ages 7 – 10
Solve a museum mystery using your detective skills. Follow the clues throughout the museum, tinker with detective gadgets, uncover secret messages hidden in the collection and solve the mystery with your sleuthing teammates.

For more digital workshops and free school holidays activities please visit www.maas.museum

The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes
Until 8 October, 2017
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
maas.museum/event/the-international-exhibition-of-sherlock-holmes/
Tickets via ticketek.com General admission for adults is $27 / Concession $25 / Children $16 / Family Pass $65

The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes exhibition images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r1dxv8cahr7h8t9/AADCS_hR1I2A0ap4HUiOR7VLa?dl=0

School holidays images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/jy9sqdsj9e17bxh/AABFMy7ukDVqrKU9Katr1URsa?dl=0

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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SYDNEY DESIGN FESTIVAL ANNOUNCED

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Expressions of interest have been announced for the 20th Sydney Design Festival taking place from 2 – 11 March 2018 at venues throughout Greater Sydney. Celebrating the best of design, the Festival, presented by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), will include exhibitions, talks, workshops, events and tours at venues across Sydney.

Sydney Design Festival is one of the longest running design festivals in the world. Last year’s Festival attracted over 65,000 attendees to over 100 events. This year’s theme, Call to Action, invites participants to consider the role of design in tackling complex global issues.

MAAS Director and CEO, Dolla Merrillees said “Design impacts on everyday life and culture. In a time of rapid change design can offer unexpected solutions, yet good design can be elusive and controversial. Sydney Design Festival aims to democratise and nurture design, encouraging the interplay between the designer and consumer, the process and product. Originally focused on Australian design and local issues, the Festival has grown and developed over the past two decades and now engages in international debates, explores trends in design processes and champions innovations. We are excited by the prospect of the 20th Festival attracting designers addressing challenges facing the world today through the theme of Call to Action,” said Ms Merrillees.

Expressions of interest are now open for program contributions across formats as varied as lectures, studio tours, exhibitions, events and networking opportunities. Design streams range from architecture, landscape, industrial and interiors to fashion, jewellery and graphic design. The Festival this year will also explore the expansion of design disciplines through materials technology and sustainable production, design-led community engagement, digital communication and speculative practice. A panel of Festival advisors will be integral to the selection of participants and developing the program. Advisors range from high-profile designers to industry bodies central to setting future directions for Australian design and include the NSW Architects Registration Board and Good Design Australia.

NSW Architects Registration Board registrar Tim Horton said “In a more urban world, more of our world is designed. How well it’s designed, and what it’s designed to do becomes more important. We know great design not only solves problems, but also creates new opportunities. But most importantly design can reveal plausible futures for us to choose; something Sydney needs more than ever. Sydney Design Festival has been making all this possible for 20 years.”

Good Design Australia CEO Brandon Gien said “Our world has many challenges that can be solved when looked at through the lens of design. The Sydney Design Festival brings our design and creative industries together to help shape a new narrative around how design can be leveraged to help solve some of these challenges – from better city planning, transport, health, education – to helping shape better products, services, systems, spaces and experiences – design impacts at all levels.”

Expressions of Interest close on 8 September. A full Festival program will be announced on 29 January 2018.

Sydney Design Festival
2 – 11 March 2018
Expressions of Interest close 8 September 2018
www.sydneydesign.com.au

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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JULY

THIS IS A VOICE EXCLUSIVE TO THE POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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Blending science, technology, art and performance, This is a Voice is an exhibition that reveals the power of the voice before and beyond words. Exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum from 11 August 2017 – 28 January 2018, the immersive exhibition explores how the voice is fundamentally connected to identity and what it means to be human. This is a Voice is presented in partnership with Wellcome Collection, London. The exhibition will be a highlight of this year’s Sydney Science Festival program.

“This is a Voice epitomises MAAS’ commitment to working with the best partners internationally to explore the intersection of art and science. In exploring the human voice, physically and psychologically, this is a unique look at an aspect of humanity that is at once deeply personal and universal,” said MAAS Director and CEO Dolla Merrillees.

“We are also thrilled to be working with some of Australia’s top artists, co-presenting performances at Performance Space at Carriageworks and Liveworks Festival of Experimental Art,” said Ms Merrillees.

This exhibition is an acoustic journey that brings together international and Australian artists, vocalists and artefacts from both the MAAS and Wellcome Collection features a number of specially commissioned works and performances including major new works by Australian artist and composer Lawrence English. A People’s Choir is a giant interactive sound ‘chandelier’ that invites everyone to contribute to the creation of the work by recording their aspirations and dreams for the future. Utterance featuring 14 historical gramophone horns from the MAAS collection, brought to life in a sound installation that considers what it means when voices from some communities are not permitted to speak, especially in complex political times.

Also featured in the exhibition is the diary of Virginia Woolf from the British Library, detailing her struggle with ‘hearing voices,’ an interactive on the changing dynamics of Sydney accents and an Indigenous language reclamation work by Lille Madden in collaboration Jonathan Jones. Alongside these installations are medical models of the human larynx, research into ‘babytalk’, a chatbot designed to provide psychological care to Syrian refugees and a paintings by Emily Kngwarreye and Yukultji Napangati that express the deep relationship between ancestral voices and songlines.

Visitors can connect with and challenge the way their understanding of the physiology and psychology of the human voice at a range of special events. These include turning voice patterns into wearable jewelry, a 24 hour endurance vocal mass public choir and discovering how infants acquire sounds and grammar in a series of interactive demonstrations and games.

Celebrate the launch of This is a Voice at MAASive Lates: Science at the Powerhouse Museum on 10 August. Join British artist Anna Barham’s performance using Voice Recognition Software on 12 August The Super Critical Mass 24 Hour Choir, will make history with an endurance exercise for the voice as a mass choir performs over a 24 hour period from 1pm 2 – 3 September at Observatory Hill. Agatha Gothe-Snape’s Rhetorical Chorus, featuring Joan La Barbara, will be performed at Carriageworks from 19-22 October, presented in collaboration with Performance Space as part of their Liveworks Festival of Experimental Art.

This is a Voice exhibition 11 August 2017 – 28 January 2018
Curators: Katie Dyer, MAAS and Bárbara Rodríguez Muñoz, Wellcome Collection
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Admission: Free with general admission: $15 adult, $8 concession, kids under 16 years free
A Wellcome Collection exhibition in collaboration with MAAS.
For full program details please visit www.maas.museum/event/this-is-a-voice/

MEDIA CONTACTS: Matt Fraser matt@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0401 326 007

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About the Wellcome Collection
Wellcome Collection is the free visitor destination for the incurably curious. Located at 183 Euston Road, London, it explores the connections between medicine, life and art in the past, present and future. The newly expanded venue offers visitors contemporary and historic exhibitions and collections, lively public events, the world-renowned library, a café, a shop, a restaurant and conference facilities as well as publications, tours, a book prize, international and digital projects. Wellcome Collection celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2017. Wellcome Collection is part of Wellcome, a global charitable foundation that exists to improve health for everyone by helping great ideas to thrive. Both politically and financially independent, we support scientists and researchers, take on big problems, fuel imaginations and spark debate.

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JUNE

A SPECTACULAR LINE UP OF EVENTS AT SYDNEY SCIENCE FESTIVAL 2017

Full Program Announced

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The Sydney Science Festival 2017 program has been released, featuring a stellar line up of science events for all ages in venues across Sydney from Tuesday 8 to Sunday 20 August 2017.

An action-packed 13 days of events, Sydney Science Festival is a hands on science experience featuring some of the most exciting names in science today, including Sydney Science Festival Ambassador and UTS forensic scientist, Professor Shari Forbes, U.S. climatologist Michael E. Mann, climate advocate Anna Rose, wildlife forensic scientist Rebecca Johnson, and an exciting line-up of NASA experts including astrobiologist Dr Abigail Allwood and Mars Exploration Program scientist Dr Mitch Schulte.

“The 2016 Festival attracted over 60,000 participants, reflecting growing public interest in science. With a range of international and Australian experts on this year’s extensive program, and 175 registered events – an increase of 50 from 2016 – the Festival just gets bigger and better each year and I encourage Sydney to get involved in the activities and learn more about the wonderful world of science” said Minister for the Arts, The Hon. Don Harwin.

Now in its third year, Sydney Science Festival is produced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) and the Australian Museum as part of National Science Week, in partnership with Inspiring Australia. The Festival aims to encourage an interest in science among the general public and young people, and provides an opportunity to highlight Sydney’s scientific credentials and foster partnerships between the community, research organisations and industry.

“Each year the Sydney Science Festival brings together experts from all disciplines to explore what new things we’re learning about the world around us. I’m also very pleased that this year the Festival will be co-produced by MAAS and the Australian Museum for the first time, allowing us to reach more visitors of all ages,” said MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees.

“The future is here, and we need to increase our knowledge and understanding in science, technology, engineering, arts and maths (STEAM),” said Director and CEO of Australian Museum, Kim McKay AO. “Those who understand science are more productive, and think critically. We’re committed to helping students discover just how exciting, interactive and practical science can be.”

There’s so much to do for school groups at the Australian Museum where students will take a hands-on approach to science as they meet the experts, ask the hard questions, try some experiments and get excited about the future of science. The Science Festival Schools Expo takes over the Australian Museum from 8–11 and 15–18 August.

On Thursday 10 August, celebrate the launch of the Festival after-hours at MAASive Lates: Science at the Powerhouse Museum. This free event is your chance to see the Museum in a whole new light and tour exhibitions, speed meet scientists, drive a Mars rover, escape into virtual reality and more.

Program Highlights

Is Mars our first step out into the galaxy? Life on Mars: NASA’s 2020 Rover Mission brings an incredible panel of NASA experts including Australian astrobiologist Dr Abigail Allwood, Mars Exploration Program scientist Dr Mitch Schulte, theoretical physicist, cosmologist and astrobiologist Professor Paul Davies, and astrophysicist MC Dr Graham Phillips. Listen as they discuss the potential for life on Mars and get an insight into what the future may look like on Thursday 17 August at the Sydney Opera House, Concert Hall.

Get set for some outdoor fun with Science in the Swamp at Centennial Park. The FREE family day includes lots of hands on science experiments, life-size roaming dinosaurs, experiments, shows and demonstrations.
Discover the role plants play in your favourite alcoholic drinks, and learn how science, plants and booze collide in Botany Distilled.

Watch U.S. climatologist Michael E. Mann, psychologist Stephan Lewandowsky and advocate Anna Rose discuss government’s role in climate change in The Madhouse Effect: What is Stopping Action on Climate Change? Hear interesting perspectives and share suggestions on the much debated topic Wednesday 16 August at the Sydney Opera House, Drama Theatre.

Baffle your senses with tactile and visual illusions and immerse yourself in the bizarre sensory world of animals in A Night of Illusions at 107 Projects, Redfern.

Bring the whole family along for an awesome day out and expand your wildlife knowledge at Taronga Zoo’s Wild Science Race. Explore current research projects with real scientists, test your scientific skills and compete in challenges around the Zoo. The family fun continues at Science in the Wild at the Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan where little ones (and big ones too!) can pet a dinosaur, listen to a tree, feed a snake and more. Plus get hands-on at the Australian Museum’s Super Science Saturday or the Powerhouse Museum Family Fun Day.

If visiting the Powerhouse Museum during Sydney Science Festival, you’ll be able to get hands on with forensics in The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes and contemplate the evolution of speech in This is a Voice.

The full Sydney Science Festival program is available online at www.sydneyscience.com.au. For more information about National Science Week events visit www.scienceweek.net.au.

Science fans can make the most of the Festival by purchasing one of two Festival Passes:
• Science Festival Pass allows science lovers to enjoy free entry to other events worth over $200, for only $35.
• Science Festival Premium Pass boasts additional benefits to events worth over $370, for only $60.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Matt Fraser: matt@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0401 326 007

Follow Sydney Science Festival on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sydneysciencefestival
Twitter: @SydScienceFest

Event: Sydney Science Festival
Dates: 8 – 20 August, 2017
Website: www.sydneyscience.com.au

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MAY

SOLVE THE MYSTERIES OF SHERLOCK HOMES THESE WINTER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

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These school holidays children can embrace their inner detective with The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes exhibition opening at the Powerhouse Museum. Accompanying the exhibition will be a series of Sherlockian themed workshops, events and free activities across the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences venues; the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre (MDC).

Junior detectives can get busy finger printing and cracking codes at the Powerhouse Museum, solve intergalactic crimes at Sydney Observatory and use the tools of the trade including lie detectors and invisible ink at the Museums Discovery Centre.

The notion of scientific observation underpins the experiences across each of the venues, as junior detectives are encouraged to think like Sherlock Holmes and look closely at the world around them, collect data, and consider evidence to solve problems, ultimately graduating from Junior Detective School.

Powerhouse Museum

Hall of Mysteries and Detective Photo Booth
1 – 17 July, 10am – 4pm daily, free
Sherlock Holmes has disappeared and the Museum’s collection holds the clues to finding him! Put your skills of observation to the test as you look for evidence to solve the mystery of where in the Museum Sherlock Holmes was last seen, before Moriarty does! You’ll need to find the message in a bottle, explore specimens through microscopes, find hidden objects, decode secret messages and more as you gather evidence for this case and go on to graduate to the rank of MAAS Junior Detective.

AR Treasure Hunt Designer Digital Workshops
5 July 10am – 4pm, Children $100, Members $90, ages 9 – 12
Explore the exciting world of augmented reality (AR) by designing clues and puzzles for your very own AR treasure hunt! Learn the basics of game design with professional tools. Make your own 3D models, textures and music and an AR target to bring your game alive.

Prop Designer
14 July, 10am – 4pm, Children $100, Members $90, ages 11 – 13
Props are essential to building the world of film. In this exciting workshop, design and make your own prop based on your favourite movie or game. Use tools and learn techniques to bring your idea to life!

Sydney Observatory

Space Detectives Workshops
1 – 17 July, sessions daily, Children $20, Members $15, ages 6 – 10
A crime of stellar proportions has been committed at Sydney Observatory and we need your curious minds and keen eyes to solve the case! Join guides at the scene of the crime and use your investigation skills to solve the mystery.

Animated Cartoon Creator
3 July 10am – 4pm, Children $100, Members $90, ages 9-12
Learn the tricks of animation used in popular cartoons. Create your own cartoon using Surface Books to draw frame-by-frame animation and bring still images to life. Suitable for learners with any level of drawing skills, children will bring their imagination to life with a variety of animations, from stick figures to full anime.

Drop-in Detective!
1 – 17 July, sessions daily, free, ages 5+
Using a cipher wheel and coding techniques, solve the clues to unlock the mysteries of the Universe.

Museums Discovery Centre

Junior Detective School Workshops
3 – 7, 10 – 14 July, 10am – 12pm, Children $25, Members $20, ages 6 – 10
Enroll in Detective and Spy Training School and learn the basics to become a detective or secret agent. Pick your James Bond getaway car from our collection, discover how lie detectors work, take finger prints, use invisible ink and crack secret codes as you solve super mysteries with our museum trained detectives.

Kids Forensic Lab Workshops
3 – 7, 10 – 14 July, 1 – 3pm, Children $25, Members $20, ages 7 – 11
Worried about crimes against museum artefacts? Learn how objects are conserved and use real forensic investigation techniques to solve crimes and foil criminal master minds.

Be a Print Maker
11 July 10am – 4pm, Children $100, Members $90, ages 9 – 12
In this one day workshop young artists will be introduced to the exciting world of printmaking. Budding artists will find plenty of inspiration within the MDC collection of objects from MAAS, the Australian Museum and Sydney Living Museums. Drawing upon these inspirations, they will create their own works to showcase in a mini exhibition at the end of the workshop.

I.C.E. (Information and Cultural Exchange) Parramatta

Little Computer Scientist
11 July 10am – 4pm, from $90, ages 6+
Step into the exciting world of computer science. Learn through play as you discover computer software concepts, develop problem-solving skills and use the MAAS ThinkerShield coding hardware to control physical components such as lights and buzzers. This fun course develops learners’ cognition through coding and creativity.

For more digital workshops and free school holidays activities please visit www.maas.museum

The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes
1 June – 29 October, 2017
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
sherlockholmesexhibition.com
Tickets via ticketek.com
General admission for adults is $27 / Concession $25 / Children $16 / Family Pass $65
Discounts available for pre-purchased tickets and groups

The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes exhibition images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r1dxv8cahr7h8t9/AADCS_hR1I2A0ap4HUiOR7VLa?dl=0

School holidays images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/jy9sqdsj9e17bxh/AABFMy7ukDVqrKU9Katr1URsa?dl=0

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Ogilvy PR: Elizabeth Johns
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences. Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. MAAS has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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SOLVE SYDNEY’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY

The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes sets sights on Sydney

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Fancy yourself a daring detective or super sleuth? Prepare to have your skills put to the test with The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes, presented by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS). This adventure into forensic crime, conundrums and the positively puzzling premieres exclusively at the Powerhouse Museum on Thursday 1 June 2017.

In its first tour outside North America, exhibition visitors will be transported back to Sherlock Holmes’ Victorian London to help solve a captivating mystery and will have the chance to crack the case by conducting their own experiments.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to glimpse into the genius of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the mastermind behind one of the most famous detectives in the known world. Featuring over 350 objects, see original manuscripts and first editions, visit one of the world’s most accurate recreations of 221B Baker Street, the home of Sherlock Holmes and his trusty sidekick Watson and immerse yourself in the most comprehensive display of Sherlock pop culture items since his creation 127 years ago.

“This exhibition proves Sherlock Holmes has been one of history’s most enduring characters for good reason This is the first opportunity for Australian visitors to immerse themselves into the world of forensic science, step into Sherlock’s shoes to solve a crime and enjoy an up close look at the many iterations of Sherlock in popular culture over decades of interpretations,” said MAAS Director Dolla Merrillees.

“Sherlock Holmes is the most influential character in fiction, encouraging entire generations to demand truth through the use of science. These influences have brought many young inquisitive minds into the field of forensic science and many more into all sciences, searching for clarity in our often foggy world,” said exhibition creator Geoffrey M. Curley.

The exhibition is brought to the Powerhouse Museum through a unique arts partnership between Exhibits Development Group (EDG); Geoffrey M. Curley + Associates; Conan Doyle Estate Ltd.; and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. This is the first time a Conan Doyle family member has been involved in a Sherlock Holmes exhibition.

Sherlock fans looking to try their hand as a sleuth can get involved in a range of programs during the exhibition including a MAASive Lates night, a True Crime Panel Talk and Sherlock Trivia Night. The first chance to experience The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes will be at MAASive Lates on 1 June. This special adults-only night will feature crime-themed activities and entertainment as the museum opens after dark for one night only. From a master criminal to a detective, a forensic scientist and an academic who designs crimes out of cities, every angle is covered in July’s True Crime Panel Talk. Experience the exhibition after hours with Sherlock’s biggest fans then share your knowledge at the adults-only Sherlock Trivia Night. Junior detectives don’t miss out though. There is an entire case for kids to solve, documenting their crime solving skills in a detective file, as they work through the exhibition.

So if you’re a budding biologist, a physics fanatic or crazy for chemistry, The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes at the Powerhouse Museum will have all the dastardly deeds and shady characters you can poke a magnifying glass at.

Tickets are on sale now and bookings are essential. The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes opens on the evening of Thursday 1 June and runs until Sunday 29 October, 2017.

On view: The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes
Dates: 1 June – 8 October, 2017
Address: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Website: maas.museum
sherlockholmesexhibition.com
Tickets via ticketek.com
Admission: General admission for adults is $27
Concession $25,
Children $16
Family Pass $65.
Discounts available for pre-purchased tickets and groups

MAASive Lates: Sherlock Holmes, Thursday 1 June, 6.30-10pm
Tap into your inner detective to solve a crime using techniques developed by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and made famous by his much-loved character Sherlock Holmes.

True Crime panel talk, Thursday, 6 July, 6-7.30pm
Hear an expert panel discuss true crime and their unique first hand experiences. Presented in partnership with Sydney Living Museums Justice & Police Museum and its Crime Writing Festival.

Sherlock Trivia Night, Thursday 7 September, 5-6.30pm exhibition viewing followed by a 7-9pm trivia event
Enjoy the exhibition after hours then unleash your inner detective and see how you fare trying to solve a captivating, original murder mystery.

The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r1dxv8cahr7h8t9/AADCS_hR1I2A0ap4HUiOR7VLa?dl=0

Follow Powerhouse Museum on:
Facebook: facebook.com/powerhousemuseum
Twitter: @maasmuseum
Instagram: @powerhousemuseum
#sherlockholmes
#powerhousemuseum

MEDIA CONTACT:
Matt Fraser matt@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0401 326 007
Amber Forrest-Bisley amber@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0405 363 817

EDITORS NOTES

The exhibition is made up of five galleries:

· Dr. Conan Doyle’s Study – Conan Doyle, a scientifically educated physician, was a curious and tireless investigator his entire life. Discover his world first, as a medical student at Edinburgh University, then as an apprentice at Royal Surgeons’ Hall, next as a practicing physician in Southsea, Portsmouth, and finally as a creator of literary genius who moved to London in the early 1890s and became a full-time author. On display will be an original manuscript, letters, and illustrations through which guests will gain perspective on the experiences that influenced Conan Doyle in creating Sherlock Holmes.

· Science and History –Participate in experiments by exploring the developments in science and technology in the 1890s — developments that are still highly relevant today. Supported by forensics expert and crime historian E. J. Wagner, author of The Science of Sherlock Holmes, the exhibition digs into real forensic studies in order to demonstrate the link between the Sherlock Holmes stories, detective science and the world of today.

· Sherlock Holmes in Baker Street – Visit Sherlock Holmes’ and Dr. Watson’s sitting room at 221B Baker Street, London, where their investigations began and concluded – a room looming large in popular imagination around the globe ever since the first Sherlock Holmes tale, A Study in Scarlet, in 1887.

· Become a Detective – Exchange the museum map for a book full of clues while hot on a trail to solve a remarkable crime. Using your own powers of observation, crack a new Sherlock Holmes mystery written exclusively for this exhibition by Daniel Stashower, the acclaimed writer and award-winning Conan Doyle biographer.

· Culture of Sherlock – Enjoy the exhibition’s final gallery, housing an extensive collection of all things “Sherlockian,” ranging from vintage Sherlock Holmes-themed card games, comics, and magazines, to radio scripts, and movie and television show props and costumes. The exhibition offers up the most comprehensive display anywhere of Sherlock Holmes as portrayed in popular imagination over the last 127 years since his creation.

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About Exhibits Development Group (EDG):
EDG is dedicated to the development, production, marketing, and distribution of traveling museum exhibitions and cultural projects. EDG also serves as a partner to other exhibition organizers, museums, foundations, and collection owners in the U.S. and abroad, in the care and stewardship of their exhibitions and collections. EDG’s mission is to initiate and promote international cultural and intellectual exchange by bringing high-quality traveling exhibitions of art, science, and history to broad and diverse audiences. For more information, please visit www.exhibitsdevelopment.com

About Geoffrey M. Curley + Associates, LLC (GMCA):
GMCA is an innovative consulting company dedicated to supporting the development and execution of new and vibrant educational, hands-on, minds-on experiences for museums. GMCA’s goal is to integrate new, cutting-edge technologies, environmental design and emotional storytelling with tantalizing visual, audio and tactile experiences making exhibitions personal, artistic, fun, educational, and memorable. For more information, please visit www.gmcurley.com

About Conan Doyle Estate Ltd.:
Conan Doyle Estate Ltd. is sole owner of the Sherlock Holmes and other Conan Doyle rights. Owned by members of the Conan Doyle family, and successor to the Estate of Dame Jean Conan Doyle (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s daughter who died in 1997), it manages the copyrights and trademarks in Sir Arthur’s works and characters. For more information, please visit www.conandoyleestate.co.uk

About Oregon Museum of Science and Industry:
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit www.omsi.edu.

About Museum of London
Museum of London tells the story of the world’s greatest city and its people. It cares for more than two million objects in its collections and attracts over 600,000 visitors per year. It also holds the largest archaeological archive in the world. The Museum’s collections of photographs, paintings and objects relating to 19th century London are particularly rich, supporting a deep understanding of the city during this extraordinary period in its history. They are cared for by a team led by Alex Werner, the Museum’s Head of History Collections and an expert on 19th century London history and on Sherlock Holmes. More information is available from www.museumoflondon.org.uk

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RECONCILIATION WEEK 2017 AT MAAS

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The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) will celebrate 2017 Reconciliation Week with a series of community-focused events and the unveiling of its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property Protocol (ICIP) and the announcement of a new Elders in Residence program at MAAS.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said furthering genuine and respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is a priority for MAAS.

“We are pleased to be joining with our local Indigenous community throughout Reconciliation Week to further our progress towards reconciliation,” said Ms Merrillees.

“The new MAAS RAP and ICIP protocol are living documents that help MAAS embed processes and practices that allow for intentional consultation, collaboration and connection with Indigenous communities to support continuing cultural practice in the applied arts and sciences.”

The MAAS Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) recognises the role of the Museum as custodians of Indigenous cultural material and outlines approaches to fostering an ongoing orientation of reconciliation within the organisation.

The Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) protocol establishes that MAAS’s commitment to recognise and respect the right of Indigenous peoples, communities and custodians to protect, maintain, control and benefit from their intellectual property, both tangible and intangible.

Reconciliation Week will begin with the unveiling of the MAAS RAP and new ICIP protocols and be followed by a week of celebration, reflection and shared learning.

The Reconciled Writer
Saturday 27 May 2017, 10.30am–4.30pm, Powerhouse Museum
Begin Reconciliation Week with a workshop run by award-winning Murri writer and activist Samuel Wagan Watson. Draw from the MAAS collection to produce original writing in this rapid response writing class and share your drafts with fellow writers in a constructive, collaborative environment.

MAAS Mabo Day Address
Saturday 3 June 2017, 6.30–8.30pm, Sydney Observatory
The third MAAS Mabo Day Address will be presented by Wuthathi/Meriam lawyer and ICIP authority Terri Janke. As an international authority on ICIP Terri will share her experiences advising organisations in the Australian cultural sector on indigenous cultural and intellectual property.

The Decadent Weaving of Grace Lillian Lee
Saturday 3 June 2017, 10.30am–3.30pm, Sydney Observatory
Indigenous Australian artist Grace Lillian Lee adapts traditional Torres Strait Island weaving techniques to modern fashion aesthetics to produce unique wearable art. Join Grace in a workshop inspired by her merging of fashion and performance to create your own woven art.

Mabo Decision 25th Anniversary and 50th Anniversary of the 1967 Referendum
27 May 2017 – 4 February 2018
Displays at Sydney Observatory and Powerhouse Museum commemorate the 25th anniversary of the historic Mabo decision and the 50th anniversary of the 1967 referendum that led to changing to the Constitution to include Aboriginal people in the national census and be recognised in the reckoning of the population of Australia.

For bookings and further information about Reconciliation Week at MAAS visit www.maas.museum

For media enquiries contact Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 0402 359 016

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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APRIL

LOVE IS… AUSTRALIAN WEDDING FASHION EXCLUSIVE TO POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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A curated collection of Australian wedding fashion spanning 200 years will be on display for the first time in Love Is… Australian Wedding Fashion exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum. Presented by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Centre for Fashion, Love Is opens on 13 May 2017.

Wedding fashions from Australian celebrities and high profile personalities will be on display alongside examples of bridal trends across generations of Australians. Love Is features over 60 wedding outfits such as designs by Vera Wang, Toni Maticevski and Romance Was Born, accessories such as a headpiece by celebrity milliner Viktoria Novak and photos from the weddings of prominent Australians.

Famous wedding fashions on display include Nicole Kidman’s Balenciaga gown, Jesinta Franklin’s (nee Campbell) and Kate Waterhouse’s Vera Wang wedding dresses, Dan Single’s Tom Ford suit and self-designed shirt and Bambi Northwood-Blythe’s Roberto Cavalli gown, Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell’s Versace and Calibre wedding attire, Terry Biviano’s J’Aton dress, Collette Dinnigan’s dress of her own design and Yellow Wiggle Emma Watkins-Gillespie and Purple Wiggle Lachy Gillespie’s wedding outfits.

From Australia’s oldest surviving wedding dress, worn by Ann Marsden in 1822, to colonial fashions, elegant 1920s gowns, the hippy 1960s and through to contemporary designs that reflect the cultural diversity of modern Australia, uncover the history of Australian wedding fashion through the ages.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the exhibition was a unique way to view Australian fashion.

“Wedding ceremonies have long played an important role in the lives of Australian families and this exhibition showcases the changing nature of marriage and relationships in our diverse culture. At a time when there is a national dialogue about marriage equality, this exhibition reflects our evolving society and provides a snapshot of Australian culture through the prism of wedding fashions,” said Ms Merrillees

Love Is is presented with support from Principal Partner Tiffany & Co and is the third exhibition presented by the MAAS Centre for Fashion, following Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life in 2016 and Unlaced: Collette Dinnigan in 2015. Love Is will be accompanied by a series of public programs.

Exhibition details
What: Love Is… Australian Wedding Fashion
When: 13 May 2017 – 22 April 2018
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Details: maas.museum/love
Admission: Free with general admission: $15 adult, $8 concession, kids under 16 years free
Bookings: (02) 9217 0111 www.maas.museum
Images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/56f78x6gub7sspi/AAA6VxUBdrhVIKHwFWAfoOMma?dl=0

What does love mean to you? To celebrate Love is… Australian Wedding Fashion we want to hear what love is to you. Share an image or story that describes what love is to you, hashtag #loveismaas #powerhousemuseum

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About The Centre for Fashion. The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

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MARCH

THREE STATE MUSEUMS ANNOUNCE FREE WEEKEND

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Explorers young and old are invited to a weekend of excitement as the Museums Discovery Centre (MDC) presents the first of four free, open weekends for 2017, complete with camel rides, archaeology demonstrations, a film screening, rock climbing, and more, in addition to the thousands of curiosities on display from three of NSW’s cultural institutions.

The MDC, a collaboration between the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australian Museum (AM) and Sydney Living Museums (SLM), re-opened in September 2016 following refurbishment, and offers a rare chance to see how museums store their vast collections.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the open weekend provided a great day out for families.

“The collections on display at the MDC are the spark for sharing thousands of stories. We love welcoming visitors who share their memories, whether it be of catching the old Albion Valkyrie bus, or driving an early FJ Holden.

“During the open weekend, the MDC will come alive with two full days of free, hands-on activities, talks and tours, and demonstrations from the Jeep and Meccano Clubs.”

AM Director and CEO, Kim McKay AO, said that this open weekend would celebrate the joy of exploration and discovery at the heart of all three museums.

“Exploration has been in the DNA of the Australian Museum since it was founded 190 years ago – an anniversary we celebrate at the end of March – and we’re delighted to partner with our fellow state museums to share that adventurous spirit.

“Visitors to the MDC can see Mawson’s clothes and boots from his expeditions, and undertake their own orienteering challenge.”

SLM Executive Director, Mark Goggin, said the MDC provides much needed space and expanded public access to the SLM collections.

“We have a large number of architectural items on open display and we are delighted that visitors, who may not be able to get to the MDC through the working week, will now have an opportunity to view these historical pieces on the open weekend.”

The MDC open weekends will be offered quarterly, with the first on 25-26 March.

The MDC opened in September 2016 and is the first shared museum of its kind in Australia. Covering several state of the art storage and conservation facilities, the MDC houses extensive collections from the fields of engineering, architecture, science, art, transport, fashion, design, health, technology, natural history, domestic life, Indigenous and Pacific cultures and more.

Museums Discovery Centre
170 Showground Road, Castle Hill
See museumsdiscoverycentre.com or further information.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
MAAS Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016
AM Rohan Astley | rohan.astley@austmus.gov.au | 9320 6086 / 0407 215 392
SLM Emma Heath | emma.heath@sydneylivingmuseums.com.au | 8072 4516 / 0466 503 732

Media images available: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/efkkxnsrkykyy5j/AABMyPt7k3aUMg-HFjhdcY2ja?dl=0

Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS)
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

Australian Museum (AM)
Australian Museum (AM), founded in 1827, is the nation’s first museum, and is an internationally recognised natural science and culture institution focused on Australia and the Pacific. As custodian of more than 18 million objects, the AM is uniquely positioned to provide a greater understanding of the region through its scientific research, exhibitions and public and education programs. Through the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), the AM also has a leading role in conserving Australia’s biodiversity through understanding the environmental impacts of climate change, potential biosecurity threats and invasive species.

Sydney Living Museums (SLM)
Sydney Living Museums manages and cares for a group of 12 of the most important historic houses, gardens and museums in NSW, from Elizabeth Farm and Vaucluse House to Susannah Place Museum and Museum of Sydney. SLM’s purpose is to enrich and revitalise people’s lives with Sydney’s living history, and to hand the precious places in its care and their collections on to future generations to enjoy. Sydney Living Museums’ collection comprises more than 45,000 objects with an additional 250,000 archaeological artefacts including material from two of Australia’s most significant historic archaeological digs – Hyde Park Barracks and First Government House Sydney.

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DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS, MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES 8 – 25 April 2017

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With a world premiere touring exhibition and two newly refreshed permanent exhibitions, children of all ages will be excited by their visit to the museum these school holidays. From toddlers in The Wiggles exhibition to young primary school aged children getting hands-on with museum objects in Experimentations to older children traveling back in time to Ancient Egypt in Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives, there is something for everyone at the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) in the April school holidays.

This is your last chance to get up close to six mummies from Ancient Egypt at the world premiere of Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives from the British Museum, before it closes on 30 April. Throughout the school holidays children inspired by the work of Egyptologists can try their hand at archaeology in the giant Dig Discovery Zone. Egyptian Mummies is recommended for ages 7+.

Since opening in 2011 The Wiggles exhibition has been one of the most popular exhibitions at the museum. As a new generation of fans grow up with the world’s most popular children’s entertainers The Wiggles exhibition has been updated with new interactive spaces and the story of Yellow Wiggle Emma and Purple Wiggle Lachy. The Wiggles is suitable for infants through to primary school aged children.

Experimentations was one of the original permanent exhibitions when the Powerhouse Museum opened in 1988. The exhibition has recently undergone a refresh to bring it up to 2017 learning frameworks and is now the most interactive part of the Museum. Curious kids can get hands-on with science and design with the opportunity to make, break and create. Experimentations is suitable for ages 5 – 12years.

For kids keen to learn new skills and put them into practice The Lab offers workshops in designing games, virtual reality experiences, short films and more.

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

EXHIBITION DETAILS:
What: Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives
When: 10 December 2016 – 30 April 2017
Price: Adults $27 Concession $25 Children $16 Family Pass $65

What: The Wiggles
When: open daily
Price: free with museum entry

What: Experimentations
When: open daily
Price: free with museum entry

Dig Discovery Zone, FREE until 30 April, 10am – 5pm
Search for lost artefacts in a giant 20 metre dig pit, using archaeological tools to uncover the lives of ancient Egyptians and what they left behind. There is a special pit for under-fives.

The Lab workshops, for ages, dates and prices please visit website
Designed especially for the kid coder in the family, these workshops will foster your inner gamer.

Just for Girls Masterclass in Game Design, ages 9 – 12, 18 April, 10am – 4pm, $100
Create your very own game that can actually be played! From design to coding, build your game complete with sound track and voice over, to launch your

Mini Movie Maker, ages 6 – 7, 18 April, 10am – 4pm, $100
Make your own movie using animation techniques, green screens and the secrets of movie sound effects. This workshop is run by professionals from the Australian film industry.

Virtual Reality Music Video, ages 11–13, 20 – 21 April, 10am – 4pm, $100
Design an audiovisual virtual reality (VR) experience, complete with accompanying music track. At the workshop completion you will have a VR experience to upload to YouTube and watch through VR headsets.

SYDNEY OBSERVATORY

Ancient skies Viewing & Tours, all ages, 8 – 23 April, Adult $10, Child $8, Family $26
Look through our safe solar telescope with one of our knowledgeable astronomers before exploring the Universe in our Planetarium. On a clear day, you can see the Sun, bright stars and maybe the Moon or Venus! Day tours run on the quarter-hour for 30 minutes, starting from 10.15am until 4.15pm and include a planetarium show as well as a viewing through one of our telescopes. Bookings can be made in advance online for 2.15pm, 3.15pm and 4.15pm tours daily. Bookings are not essential for all remaining time slots – just arrive 5 minutes before the session starts.

MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE

Ancient Worlds, ages 4+, 8 – 25 April 2017, 11am–3pm, Free
Become an archaeologist for a day! Step back in time to discover an ancient world. Search for artefacts and investigate famous explorers and archaeologists. Help build structures, such as a giant step-pyramid and an ancient tomb. Inspired by the Discovery Centre’s unique and varied collection, learn how people of the past lived and discover the objects they left behind.

Digital workshops, for ages, dates and prices please visit website
From Scratch Movie Making to Minecraft Ancient Egypt and a Masterclass in Game Design, there is a digital workshop for everyone these school holidays.

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007

SYDNEY OBSERVATORY
1003 Upper Fort Street, Millers Point NSW 2000

MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE
172 Showground Road, Castle Hill NSW 2154

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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FEBRUARY

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM TO SET WORLD RECORD FOR LARGEST GATHERING OF MUMMIES

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Sydney, Australia: The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) today extended an open invitation to Sydney-siders to participate in a world record attempt for the greatest number of people dressed as mummies at a single location. The world record attempt will be held at the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo on Sunday 19 March at 11am in celebration of the world premiere exhibition, Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives.

In order to set the Guinness World Record more than 250 people are needed to wrap themselves up as mummies on the day. The world record event coincides with the Family Sundays program, which brings the Egyptian Mummies exhibition to life with interactive activities for all ages, making it an ideal weekend activity to share with friends and family.

Participants must pre-register for the event to ensure that everyone contributes towards the official count. To assist visitors mummy-wrapping stations will be set up at the Powerhouse Museum, and those keen to take part are welcome to create their own mummy costume and arrive for the event pre-wrapped. All participants who pre-register will receive free general admission to the Museum on the day and a 20% discount on Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives tickets.

The world premiere exhibition Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives explores beyond the wrappings of six mummies from the British Museum collection, revealing the mysteries of mummification hidden for thousands of years. Ancient cultures meet modern technologies as Australian audiences have a chance to see inside mummies using non-invasive computed tomography (CT) scan and 3D visualisation technology.

Egyptian Mummies is presented by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences in collaboration with the British Museum and Destination NSW and is at the Powerhouse Museum until 30 April 2017.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Claire Martin, Articulate 0414 437 588, Claire@articulatepr.com.au
Jasmine Hersee, Articulate 0406 649 393, jasmine@articualtepr.com.au
Eli Wallis, MAAS 0402 359 016 eli.wallis@maas.museum

EVENT DETAILS
What: Egyptian Mummies Guinness World Record Attempt
When: Sunday 19 March 2017, arrive 10.00am for 11.00am attempt which will last 5 minutes
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Free. Registrations essential:
To register: https://maas.museum/event/%20egyptian-mummies-guinness-world-record-attempt/

Images available for download here:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/lhhn95j7j8xl7cu/AAD6Efz7BAJvtDs6CU8ACiPEa?dl=0

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What: Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives
When: Until 30 April 2017
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Exhibition Entry Price: Adults $27 Concession $25 Children $16 Family Pass $65. Pre-book and save.

Details for the Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives public program can be found at: https://maas.museum/event/egyptian-mummies-exploring-ancient-lives/programs/

ABOUT THE MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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THE WIGGLES EXHIBITION REOPENS IN 2017 WITH THE WIGGLES LIVE IN CONCERT

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Sydney, Australia: One of Sydney’s most popular children’s exhibitions, The Wiggles, will have an exciting new upgrade in 2017. To celebrate the reopening of the exhibition The Wiggles themselves will perform live at the Powerhouse Museum on 4 March 2017.

Since opening in 2011, The Wiggles exhibition has been a huge hit with children and families. Due to popular demand the exhibition was made an ongoing feature at the Powerhouse Museum and attracts excited children daily. This much-loved exhibition will soon have new Wiggles content on display and feature personal keepsakes from the new Wiggles cast. Highlights will include Lachy’s first teddy bear, a pair of Emma’s childhood ballet shoes and Captain Feathersword’s telescope.

Favourites such as Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus and Captain Feathersword remain in the exhibition as well as new interactive activities. With support from Major Partner Transport for NSW, the exhibition will also see upgrades to the Big Red Car to incorporate messaging on seatbelt safety featuring the Wiggles’ song “Are you Buckled Up.” In addition to incorporating requests from regular visitors the exhibition has been updated in line with the NSW early years learning framework.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees, said: “For a quarter of a century the Wiggles have provided an entry point to the arts for children. Their popularity, nationally and internationally, is unprecedented and they are a wonderful Australian entertainment success story. It was fitting to celebrate their story with an exhibition, which we opened during their 20th anniversary in 2011. Now as The Wiggles clock up 25 years of bringing joy to children and families it is the perfect time to update the exhibition for the next generation of Wiggles fans.”

Blue Wiggle, Anthony Field said: “We are delighted that The Wiggles exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum has been so popular. As new fans join the extended Wiggles family it is wonderful to be able to share and create new Wiggles memories with them. We can’t wait to see the new experience and celebrate with a live concert!”

While the exhibition gets a make-over, the Wiggles exhibition will be closed until 4 March 2017. With permanent children’s interactive exhibition Experimentations recently updated the Powerhouse Museum has much to offer young visitors and is the ideal outing for children and families.

Join Anthony, Emma, Simon and Lachy as the big red car chugga chugs into the Powerhouse Museum on 4 March. Tickets to The Wiggles live at the Powerhouse Museum are on sale from 15 February and will sell like hot potatoes!

MEDIA CONTACTS: Eli Wallis, MAAS 0402 359 016 eli.wallis@maas.museum

THE WIGGLES EXHIBITION DETAILS:
When: opening 4 March 2017
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: free with museum entry

THE WIGGLES LIVE IN CONCERT DETAILS:
When: 10.30am Saturday 4 March 2017
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Free with Museum entry – $15/8 for adults and concession, $5 members and kids free.
Bookings: https://maas.museum/event/the-wiggles-live-in-concert/
Images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ebgyj3kmog5kx0n/AAAa_14W60a_hVDng4Q-FgANa?dl=0

FAMILY SUNDAYS: EGYPTIAN MUMMIES
When: Sundays in February and March, 10.00 am – 4.00pm
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: free with museum entry
Each Sunday throughout February and March, to celebrate Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives, families and friends can explore ancient Egyptian lives through either the eyes of an architect, artist, archaeologist or a pharaoh. Learn about ancient Egyptian buildings, what pharaohs wore, how artists worked, or become an archaeologist for the day.
Images available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/7bi58h89dk1h3fs/AAAPk4jnK22gYliEyr95BDgka?dl=0

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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THIS IS A VOICE headlines 2017 SYDNEY SCIENCE FESTIVAL

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The 2017 Sydney Science Festival will take visitors on an auditory journey inside the elusive nature of the human voice with the exhibition This is a Voice. This immersive experience will be part of a compelling program of exhibitions, talks and workshops taking place across Sydney during the Sydney Science Festival this August.

Now in its third year, the 2017 Sydney Science Festival will be produced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences and Australian Museum with founding partner Inspiring Australia. The festival brings together a diverse group of research institutions, museums, universities, industry, and community organisations across greater Sydney, to deliver a program for all ages during National Science Week.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the festival will once again showcase a range of engaging activities.

“The 2016 festival attracted over 60,000 participants, reflecting growing public interest in science. This year we are working with scientists and organisations from across Sydney to prepare a program which will intrigue, amuse, and satisfy the curiosity of our visitors of all ages.”

“We will be showcasing international and Australian experts, as well as bringing back some favourites including the Powerhouse Museum’s Family Day, Science in the Swamp, the Australian Museum Community Day and Winning Sky Photos at Sydney Observatory.” said Ms Merrillees.

Organisations or individuals interested in being a part of the 2017 festival program are invited to submit an expression of interest by 10 March 2017.

This is a Voice
Blending science, technology, theatre, video and sound and featuring daily ‘voicings’, live performances and demonstrations, a highlight of this year’s Sydney Science Festival program will be This is a Voice. The exhibition is presented in partnership with Wellcome Collection, London, and will explore how the voice is connected to human life and identity.

Visitors will enter the exhibition through an anechoic chamber, a non-echoing corridor designed to absorb all sounds. Providing a moment of stillness, the chamber is an opportunity to shift attention from the visual to the aural before being enveloped in the soundscape of the exhibition. This is a Voice will delve inside vocal tracts, restless minds and speech devices and contemplate the evolution of the voice, before and beyond words.

“This highly performative exhibition will challenge visitors to reconsider the voice and its role in shaping our collective and individual human experience,” said Ms Merrillees.

An action-packed 11 days of events, the Sydney Science Festival is a hands on science experience that delivers an array of powerful performances, daring demonstrations and wondrous workshops in venues across the city.

Sydney Science Festival
10-20 August 2017
Expressions of Interest close on 10 March 2017 www.sydneyscience.com.au/eoi/
Follow Sydney Science Festival on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sydneysciencefestival
Twitter: @SydScienceFest
Website: www.sydneyscience.com.au

This is a Voice exhibition
12 August 2017 – 28 January 2018
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Admission: Free with general admission: $15 adult, $8 concession, kids under 16 years free
www.maas.museum/event/this-is-a-voice/
A Wellcome Collection exhibition in collaboration with MAAS.

MEDIA CONTACT: Matt Fraser: matt@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0401 326 007

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MAASive LATES 2017 FREE ADULTS ONLY NIGHTS AT POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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Popular MAASive Lates nights at the Powerhouse Museum return in 2017 with four free, after-hours events for adults jam packed with expert talks and tours, opportunities to learn and make, discounted access to special exhibitions and themed food and drinks. MAASive Lates begins in 2017 with an Egyptian Mummies themed night on Thursday 23 March.

MAASive Lates: Egyptian Mummies will feature the recreation of an archeological dig, telescope viewing of the night sky with ancient sky stories told by astronomers from Sydney Observatory and the opportunity to have your archeological questions answered by experts such as Egyptologists, embalmers, archeologists and morticians in Speed Meet an Expert. The British Museum exhibition Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives will be open until late and discounted to $21.60 (usually $27) for one night only for MAASive Lates audiences. Enjoy expert talks in Egyptian Mummies as well as Recollect: Health and Medicine, an exhibition uncovering generations of medical equipment from the MAAS collection.

MAASive Lates is a series of one-off events curated by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, opening the Powerhouse Museum at night for adults-only to experience exhibitions, performances and interactive experiences. Each MAASive Lates event expands upon themes that underpin current exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum and embody the MAAS commitment to being a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds.

MAASive LATES 2017

MAASive Lates: Egyptian Mummies, Thursday 23 March
Unwrap the layers of thousands of years of history as you discover secrets of the Ancient Egyptians using cutting-edge technology and expertise from on-hand archaeologists and Egyptologists.

MAASive Lates: Sherlock Holmes, Thursday 1 June
Tap into your inner detective to solve a crime using techniques developed by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and made famous by his much-loved character Sherlock Holmes.

MAASive Lates: Science, Thursday 10 August
Experiment, learn, discuss and create at the Sydney Science Festival. Find your voice at premiere exhibition This Is A Voice direct from the Wellcome Collection, London.

MAASive Lates: Design, Thursday 26 October
Explore design principals, history and future trends as part of an exciting new design exhibition soon to be announced.

Tickets to MAASive Lates events are free but limited. The Junction Café and licenced bar will be open.
To register for tickets visit www.maas.museum/event/maasive-lates-egyptian-mummies/
Entry to Egyptian Mummies is discounted for one night only on 23 March. Adult $21.60 / Concession $20

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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STUDENTS DESIGN FUTURE SOLUTIONS

HSC and Tertiary showcases at the Powerhouse Museum

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Discover innovative projects from 2016 HSC graduates that will shape the future of Australian design at Shape 2016, opening at the Powerhouse Museum on 24 February.

Director of the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences, Dolla Merrillees said “Jobs of the future are predicted to rely heavily on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) skills so it is encouraging to see such exemplary student creations in these areas.”

“Showcasing student work in STEAM is a core commitment for the Museum following the recent launch of the MAAS Centre for STEAM, which delivers a range of STEAM based initiatives that improve the accessibility, quality and creativity of learning opportunities for teachers, parents and the young people themselves.”

Among the 36 innovative student works on display in Shape 2016 are a universal coffee pod recycling tool, a hand-held peak flow meter for young children with asthma, a 1950s inspired overcoat and hat, and a stop-motion romantic comedy.

These outstanding student works have been selected from three related subject areas: Design and Technology, Industrial Technology, and Textiles and Design. These three Technology subjects share an approach to design thinking, innovation and creativity through the use of appropriate tools and technologies. Innovation and consideration and use of emerging technology is an overarching theme within these subjects.

Top tertiary fashion designs will also be on display at the Powerhouse Museum from 27 March in Student Fashion as part of the MAAS Centre for Fashion program.

Four outstanding NSW fashion graduates will showcase their designs in Student Fashion. Meredith Bullen from University of Technology Sydney, Erin Pritchett from Whitehouse Institute of Design, Ann Xiao from Fashion Design Studio TAFE Ultimo campus and Laura Davis from Raffles College of Design and Commerce will each have two designs on display alongside documentation of their design process.

Shape 2016 24 February – 7 May 2017
Student Fashion 27 March – 18 October 2017
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Admission: Free with general admission: $15 adult, $8 concession, kids under 16 years free
Bookings: (02) 9217 0111 www.maas.museum

Shape 2016 will be accompanied by seminars for year 11 and 12 students. Students will view Shape 2016 hear from and engage with industry professionals, learn about sustainability and production and take part in a digital learning experiences related to their course. Admission: $34 per student
Year 12 seminars: Monday, 27 February to Friday, 3 March 2017
Year 11 seminars: Monday, 13 March to Friday, 17 March 2017

Shape 2016 has been developed by NSW Education Standards Authority in association with the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS). Shape is one of NESA’s eight HSC showcases that celebrate excellence across Creative Arts and Technology subjects in the HSC. The other showcases are: ARTEXPRESS, Texstyle, InTECH, OnStage, Callback, Encore and WordeXpress. In addition to Shape, Texstyle, at The Stitches and Craft Show 2 to 5 March 2017, features 20 Textiles and Design major projects; and InTECH at the Sydney Timber and Working with Wood Show 23 to 25 June 2017, features over 50 Industrial Technology projects.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Ogilvy PR: Jason Evans | jason@pulsecom.com.au | 0431 120 966
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016
NESA: Michael Charlton | Michael.Charlton@bostes.nsw.edu.au | 0477 362 546

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About the MAAS Centre for STEAM
In a rapidly changing world, science and arts literacy can empower society by providing the skills needed to excel in the 21st Century, to make informed decisions and to meet the demands of tomorrow’s world. In collaboration with industry leaders, educators, researchers, students and the public, the MAAS Centre for STEAM presents exhibitions, engaging learning programs, dynamic public events and scholarly inquiry.
About The Centre for Fashion
The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

About NESA
NESA replaced the Board of Studies, Teaching and Education Standards (BOSTES) on 1 January 2017.

Background on Shape
38 major projects by Design and Technology, Textiles and Design and Industrial Technology students, including:
• 13 Industrial Technology projects from 215 high achievers nominated from a total of 5699 students.
• 11 Textiles and Design projects from 40 high achievers nominated from a total of 1523 students.
• 14 Design and Technology projects from 176 high achievers nominated from a total of 3245 students.

Shape 2016 case studies

Design and Technology

Claire Metcalfe’s major design project for Design and Technology focussed on the design and development of handheld peak flow meter for young children with asthma (where there appeared to be no suitable device). Claire identified a need and set about designing a digital meter that would not only produce peak flow readings and record the data, but also employ a playful on-screen character to reassure the user the instrument had successfully recorded their breath flow, then connect via WiFi to an application of the parent’s smartphone, to notify them and upload the data. Data is also logged within the app and accumulations of readings can be used to display patient trends. Finally, housing this device within a compact, ergonomic and playful form provides child asthma patients with a purpose built and friendly solution to Australia’s most widespread chronic health problem.

Textiles and Design

From the Textiles and Design stream came Jodie Hui’s 1950s overcoat and hat. Influenced by the 1950s fashion and hats designed by Phoebe Philo, a Paris-born UK fashion designer with a flair for the cool, laidback and vintage tone, Jodie’s major textile project exhibits a restrained and talented revival of a classic.

Jodie’s coat and hat do not overwhelm, they sit neatly within an existing vocabulary of fashion forms, yet there are concealed details in this revival. Neat pleats inside the pockets welcome the wearer’s hands. The length and fall of the weighty wool is well handled by the simple shape with a high single button and a straight line. The hat is embellished with a button to echo the coat’s buttons and is elegantly formed by alternating panels of pleated, gathered and plain wool.

Industrial Technology

Within the Industrial technology subject student Claire Rogers’ chose to specialise in multimedia technologies producing a ‘claymation’, or stop-motion film using plasticine, titled Penguin Love. Claire’s film demonstrates a mature understanding of narrative devices. Drawing on the romantic comedy genre, and applying rough and ready contemporary animation styling, the viewer is taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions. This student shows extraordinary skill in the crafting and pacing of their work.

Finally, Charles Cartmer’s coffee pod cutter offers a sustainable solution to those pesky portion controlled coffee pods, which are presently unrecyclable due to the combination of plastic, aluminium and coffee grounds. Charles’s cutter separates these elements so that the aluminium and plastic can go into recycling bins and you can throw the coffee on the compost. After many iterations Charles’s final design is an ergonomic tool that safely removes the components and then uses the button top with scoop to remove the grounds. Charles has made this device a universal coffee pod cutter with interchangeable sections.

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EGYPTIAN MUMMIES: EXPLORING ANCIENT LIVES TALKS AND EVENTS

Cutting-edge technology reveals secrets of mummies from British Museum

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Sydney, Australia: Ancient cultures meet modern technologies in Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives, at the Powerhouse Museum until 30 April 2017. Explore beyond the wrappings to reveal the mysteries of mummification buried for thousands of years. Australian audiences have a chance to see inside mummies from the British Museum collection via the latest non-invasive computed tomography (CT) scan and 3D visualization technology.

An extensive public program for all the family runs throughout February and March at the Powerhouse Museum. Highlights include:

Expert Floor Talks
Wednesdays & Saturdays 2.00 pm, free with exhibition admission
Join some of Australia’s leading and emerging Egyptologists as they reveal the history behind Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives in this regular series of object-focused talks which delve into specific aspects of ancient Egyptian history.

Death and Dying Discussion Series
12 February | 16 March | 2 April 2017, from $8
Join cultural specialists for panel discussion exploring death and dying from ancient civilisations through to today. Hear from experts as they share their perspectives on what it means to die ‘well’. The series includes a comparative analysis of the mourning practices of ancient Egyptians and Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Two-Day Workshop: Kopi — Building an understanding of grief from an Indigenous cultural perspective
Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 February 10.00 am, from $125
Join artist Maree Clarke in an experiential workshop exploring art making for healing within both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal cultures. Participants will be guided through a process of building and decorating clay headwear (KOPI) to support a deepened understanding of Aboriginal culture and the connections between arts and emotional well-being.

In-Conversation: Grave Business: Dendroglyphs and grave makers of South-Eastern Australia
Monday 13 February 12.30 pm — 1.30 pm, free with museum entry
Like the ancient Egyptians, Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples constructed signposts to mark important cultural sites. Learn more about this significant cultural practice.

Mummy Movie Night (Adults): The Mummy (1959)
Friday 17 February 6.00 — 8.30 pm, from $5
Special after-hours exhibition viewing of Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives and go retro with a screening of the 1959 horror classic The Mummy.

Family Sundays
Sundays 10.00 am — 4.00 pm, free with museum entry
Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives comes to life with activities for the whole family every Sunday. Learn about ancient Egyptian buildings, what pharaohs wore, how artists worked, or become an archaeologist for the day. Experience a different theme each week:
Sunday 5 February: Pharaoh
Sunday 12 February: Archaeologist
Sunday 19 February: Architect
Sunday 26 February: Artist
Sunday 5 March: Pharaoh
Sunday 12 March: Archaeologist
Sunday 19 March: Mummies
Sunday 26 March: Artist

Details for the Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives extensive public program can be found at: https://maas.museum/event/egyptian-mummies-exploring-ancient-lives/programs/

MEDIA CONTACTS
Claire Martin, Articulate 0414 437 588, Claire@articulatepr.com.au
Jasmine Hersee, Articulate 0406 649 393, jasmine@articualtepr.com.au
Eli Wallis, MAAS 0402 359 016 eli.wallis@maas.museum

EXHIBITION DETAILS
What: Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives
When: Until 30 April 2017 *Late Wednesday openings until 9pm in February
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Exhibition Entry Price: Adults $27 Concession $25 Children $16 Family Pass $65. Pre-book and save.

Images available for download here:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tteuxoeurlj4mjw/AAAV9zaGFjT16g9k4b7NMgz4a?dl=0v

ABOUT THE MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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JANUARY

SIR DAVID ADJAYE OBE AT THE POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

“Buildings are deeply emotive structures which form our psyche.” Sir David Adjaye OBE

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Celebrated architect Sir David Adjaye OBE will give a talk at the Powerhouse Museum on Wednesday 15 February in his only public appearance while in Sydney.

An architectural prodigy, the British-Ghanaian architect recently turned 50 but has already amassed an impressively long list of designs across the world. Adjaye was the Lead Designer behind the new addition to the Smithsonian Institution, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which President Barack Obama opened in September 2016. Thirteen years in the making, the highly anticipated Museum fills the last available space on the National Mall in Washington DC.

Following his OBE award in 2007, Her Majesty the Queen knighted him in 2016 for services to architecture. A prolific designer of public spaces David has designed numerous museums, libraries, arts centres and community spaces.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said this is a unique opportunity to hear from a world-renowned thought-leader. “David Adjaye is representative of the future of public architecture. It is an honour to hear from one of the world’s leading thinkers on designing public spaces” she said.

“Adjaye’s contribution to civic space and buildings is on a global scale,” says Professor Charles Rice, Associate-Dean (Research) at UTS’s Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building. “His insights will be especially valuable at a time when Sydney is grappling with the issue of how buildings play a cultural role.”

David Adjaye will present an Australian exclusive lecture on his practice followed by a conversation will be NSW Government Architect Peter Poulet. With over 30 years’ experience Peter’s award-winning projects have spanned private and public works in Australia and overseas. Peter and Sir David will discuss their thoughts about architecture as well as Sir David’s key and current projects.

Event details:
What: Sir David Adjaye OBE lecture and in conversation with Peter Poulet
When: Wednesday 15 February, 6.30pm
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Tickets: $65 adult, $45 concession and MAAS Member
Read more: https://maas.museum/event/cultural-architecture-david-adjaye/
Head shot of David Adjaye available here:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/7z6ibloqmkcl703/AADLXaiVWVLrbkvQUks06v_aa?dl=0

The event is supported by the Office of the Government Architect and UTS’s Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

For media enquiries contact
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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COLLETTE DINNIGAN: UNLACED FINAL WEEK

Exhibition must close Sunday 29 January

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Sydney, Australia: this is your last chance to experience Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced at the Powerhouse Museum. The exhibition showcases some of Dinnigan’s most famous dresses as well as a retrospective of decades of her designs. Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced will close on 29 January.

Curated in collaboration with Dinnigan herself, the exhibition spans the designer’s 25 year career, featuring over 100 garments including her signature lingerie, bridal wear, ready-to-wear and resort collections, alongside striking signature lace and embellished designs and never-before-seen objects and accessories from her personal archive.

Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced was opened by Collette Dinnigan and the Hon Julie Bishop in August 2015. It was the first exhibition in the MAAS Centre for Fashion, followed by Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life in 2016.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees, said: “Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced has been one of our most popular exhibitions. The opportunity to see Collette’s work up close reveals her detailed craftsmanship. Visitors have also enjoyed seeing dresses worn by celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Dita Von Teese and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.”

With cutting-edge 3D printed fashion on display in Out of Hand, the permanent Lace Studies Centre and a fashion exhibition due to be announced next month, the Museum of Applied Arts and Science’s Centre for Fashion has much to offer lovers of fashion and textiles.

For media enquiries, contact: Eli Wallis, MAAS 0402 359 016 eli.wallis@maas.museum

Exhibition details:
What: Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced
When: closing Sunday 29 January
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Details: maas.museum/collette-dinnigan
Admission (includes general entry to Powerhouse Museum) Adult $15 / Concession $8
Bookings online at maas.museum/collette-dinnigan

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About The Centre for Fashion
The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia. Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

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TO SYDNEY MY DEAR WATSON, THE GAME’S AFOOT!

Sherlock Holmes premieres at the Powerhouse Museum

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Super sleuths will have their skills tested when the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) presents The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes. This interactive journey into the world of the most famous detective premieres at the Powerhouse Museum on Saturday 3 June 2017.

In the first tour outside North America, exhibition visitors will be transported back to Sherlock Holmes’ Victorian London to help solve a captivating mystery and will have the chance to crack the case by conducting their own experiments. Before taking on the challenge, visitors enter Sherlock’s world and explore the study of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, doctor-turned-author and the man behind the legend. Featuring over 350 objects, see original manuscripts and first editions, visit one of the world’s most accurate recreations of 221B Baker Street, the home of Sherlock Holmes and his trusty sidekick Watson and immerse yourself in the most comprehensive display of Sherlock pop culture items since his creation 127 years ago.

So whether you’re a Sherlockian fanatic, have a keen interest in science and history or just a fan of pop culture, an ear to the ground and an eye for observation are elementary when The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes opens at the Powerhouse Museum.

“Sherlock Holmes is one of the most treasured figures in literary history. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s world of investigation has leapt off the pages of books and into the hearts and minds of millions of people around the world,” said MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees.

“The Sherlock mysteries span nine books and countless adaptations, making him the most portrayed literary human character in film and television. This exciting exhibition takes you beyond a world of imagination and allows you to assume the role of the detective, conducting footprint and blood splatter analysis, examining botanical samples and trying your hand at chromatography all to solve the mystery,” said Ms Merrillees.

Visitors will learn how Sherlock Holmes, a scientific expert ahead of his time, used seemingly trivial observations of clues to solve some of the era’s most puzzling mysteries. The practices and techniques devised by Conan Doyle led to changes in the way police work was done, many of which remain in practice today.

Be transported through moments in history, first to Sherlock Holmes’ London and then back to present day with a pop culture gallery that shows Sherlock Holmes in all his manifestations. The pop culture gallery features costumes, props and behind the scenes equipment from the hit CBS television show Elementary and the BBC’s Sherlock, as well as Warner Bros.’ recent Sherlock Holmes movies.

This exhibition is brought to the Powerhouse Museum through a unique arts partnership between Exhibits Development Group (EDG); Geoffrey M. Curley + Associates; Conan Doyle Estate Ltd.; and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. This is the first time a Conan Doyle family member has been involved in a Sherlock Holmes exhibition.

“The Conan Doyle Estate can’t remember an undertaking as involved and exciting as this one,” says Conan Doyle Estate’s literary agent Jon Lellenberg: “Museum visitors will experience the scientific and literary ideas that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to create Sherlock Holmes, and Holmes’ methods for investigating and solving crimes as the world’s first consulting detective, and they will visit their two worlds, including the very rooms in which all this took place.”

Tickets will go on sale in March 2017. The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes opens Saturday 3 June and runs until Sunday 29 October, 2017.

Images available for download here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r1dxv8cahr7h8t9/AADCS_hR1I2A0ap4HUiOR7VLa?dl=0

This exhibition is part of The MAAS Centre for STEAM, encouraging people of all ages to embrace the wonders of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) through hands-on innovative experiences. For more information please visit maas.museum/centre-for-steam

On view: The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes
Dates: 3 June – 29 October, 2017
Address: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Website: maas.museum
sherlockholmesexhibition.com
Tickets via ticketek.com
Admission: General admission for adults is $27
Concession $25,
Children $16
Family Pass $65.
Discounts available for pre-purchased tickets and groups

Follow Powerhouse Museum on:
Facebook: facebook.com/powerhousemuseum
Twitter: @maasmuseum
Instagram: @powerhousemuseum

MEDIA CONTACT:
Matt Fraser matt@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0401 326 007
Amber Forrest-Bisley amber@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0405 363 817

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About Exhibits Development Group (EDG)
EDG is dedicated to the development, production, marketing, and distribution of traveling museum exhibitions and cultural projects. EDG also serves as a partner to other exhibition organizers, museums, foundations, and collection owners in the U.S. and abroad, in the care and stewardship of their exhibitions and collections. EDG’s mission is to initiate and promote international cultural and intellectual exchange by bringing high-quality traveling exhibitions of art, science, and history to broad and diverse audiences. For more information, please visit www.exhibitsdevelopment.com

About Geoffrey M. Curley + Associates, LLC (GMCA)
GMCA is an innovative consulting company dedicated to supporting the development and execution of new and vibrant educational, hands-on, minds-on experiences for museums. GMCA’s goal is to integrate new, cutting-edge technologies, environmental design and emotional storytelling with tantalizing visual, audio and tactile experiences making exhibitions personal, artistic, fun, educational, and memorable. For more information, please visit www.gmcurley.com

About Conan Doyle Estate Ltd
Conan Doyle Estate Ltd. is sole owner of the Sherlock Holmes and other Conan Doyle rights. Owned by members of the Conan Doyle family, and successor to the Estate of Dame Jean Conan Doyle (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s daughter who died in 1997), it manages the copyrights and trademarks in Sir Arthur’s works and characters. For more information, please visit www.conandoyleestate.co.uk

About Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit www.omsi.edu.

About Museum of London
Museum of London tells the story of the world’s greatest city and its people. It cares for more than two million objects in its collections and attracts over 600,000 visitors per year. It also holds the largest archaeological archive in the world. The Museum’s collections of photographs, paintings and objects relating to 19th century London are particularly rich, supporting a deep understanding of the city during this extraordinary period in its history. They are cared for by a team led by Alex Werner, the Museum’s Head of History Collections and an expert on 19th century London history and on Sherlock Holmes. More information is available from www.museumoflondon.org.uk

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NOVEMBER

MAAS LAUNCHES NATIONAL CENTRE FOR STEAM

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As tomorrow’s thinkers, innovators and leaders, young people across Australia will be the focus of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences’ (MAAS) new Centre for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM).

The Centre for STEAM sees MAAS collaborate with a range of corporate and education partners, including principal partner, Microsoft, and tertiary education partner, Western Sydney University, to deliver a range of STEAM based initiatives that improve the accessibility, quality and creativity of learning opportunities for teachers, parents and the young people themselves.

In the first year of its operation, the Centre for STEAM will partner with the Australian Business and Community Network (ABCN) and Microsoft to launch Full STEAM Ahead, a program designed to give over 1000 under-represented Year 8 students across Australia the STEAM skills they need to create change in the world.

MAAS developed ThinkerShields will be distributed to schools and students to support the Western Sydney Coding Club.

Digital media workshops will be hosted in partnership with Information + Cultural Exchange (ICE) in Parramatta, and an annual program of video conferences will give schools across the country access to leaders across the STEAM disciplines.

Upgraded STEAM-focused experiences will also open at the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo, including a hands-on digital learning space, The Lab, and interactive science gallery, Experimentations.

President of the MAAS Board of Trustees, Barney Glover, said “with Australia’s mathematical literacy falling against other OECD countries, and our scientific literacy not seeing improvement, there has never been a more crucial time to focus on fostering passion for STEAM disciplines in our young people.

“The Centre for STEAM provides an unprecedented opportunity to bring together education, industry and corporate partners to ensure STEAM subjects remain important and engaging for students to ensure an ongoing commitment to innovation and progress in these areas.”

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said “today’s classroom is not contained within four walls. It is a place of learning with few boundaries and infinite possibilities. MAAS is Australia’s only museum of applied arts and science and is uniquely positioned to empower students with the skills needed to excel in the 21st Century. The Centre aims to address this widening skills gap by providing learning opportunities that are both useful and engaging.”

Microsoft Australia Public Sector Director, Michael Gration, said “without a doubt, the strength of Australia’s economy relies heavily on the digital know-how of our future workforce. In partnership with the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, the Centre for STEAM provides an immersive and inclusive platform that will inspire lifelong learning and develop essential digital skills in our community through the introduction of industry-level tools and services. The opportunities for learning are vast – and Microsoft is proud to be part of this important milestone that is primed to help boost Australia’s digital literacy.”

Full details on the initiatives offered by the Centre for STEAM can be found online at:
www.maas.museum/centre-for-steam/

About ThinkerShield
ThinkerShield classroom coding kit is a reusable, thoroughly proven, complete computer-science teaching and learning solution to equip both students and teachers with the skills to enhance their competency in coding.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

For media enquiries contact Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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CULTURAL PARTNERSHIP BRINGS NEW CREATIVE WORKSHOPS TO WESTERN SYDNEY

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Hugely popular digital workshops for kids are coming to Parramatta as part of a new partnership between Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) and Information and Cultural Exchange (I.C.E.).

Enjoyed by over 12,000 students at the Powerhouse Museum over the last year, these workshops held at I.C.E in the new MAAS Mini Lab will introduce children aged 6-13 years to electronics, physical computing, robotics, game design, Minecraft, movie making and animation.

Full-day workshops led by qualified educators will be available throughout the summer school holidays.

MAAS Director Dolla Merrillees said: “Our partnership with I.C.E. is a logical extension of the popular workshops we have been successfully running for several years. These workshops routinely book out across MAAS venues and we are pleased to be able to offer more opportunities for Western Sydney participants.”

MAAS digital workshop designer James Oliver said: “These workshops have been tailored to offer a fun learning experience for our young participants, with dedicated classes catering to various age groups and workshops to specifically encourage girls to engage with coding and programming.”

For I.C.E., the partnership and program is a natural alignment. I.C.E. Executive Director John Kirkman said: “MAAS is doing extraordinary work in enabling kids and young people to actively explore digital creativity and production. I.C.E. is thrilled to be partnering with them on this excellent digital workshop program.

Workshops will commence on 3 January and can be booked via the MAAS website.

Workshop details:
What: A range of digital workshops for children aged 6-13 years
When: 3 January – 27 January 2017
Where: 8 Victoria Rd, Parramatta NSW 2150 Australia

Tickets on sale now. Full program details can be found at: https://maas.museum/whats-on/#/feature/school-holidays/venue/other

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Ogilvy PR: Jason Evans | jason@pulsecom.com.au | 0431 120 966
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About Information and Cultural Exchange (I.C.E.)
I.C.E. is a digital arts organisation specialising in inter-disciplinary, technology-focused cultural production and training. Producing digital and screen-based art that is bold, imaginative and adventurous, I.C.E. delivers creative opportunity and training for young people, communities and artists in Western Sydney.

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WALK LIKE AN EGYPTIAN INTO THE SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
17 December 2016 − 30 January 2017

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Ancient Egypt comes to life at the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences this summer. The world premiere of Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives from the British Museum opens at the Powerhouse Museum on 10 December. To celebrate the arrival of the six mummies from ancient Egypt, children and their families can enjoy workshops and FREE activities across the three MAAS venues this summer.

Children can step back in time at the Powerhouse Museum and take on the role of a Dig Discoverer to reveal the lives of ancient Egyptians and use technology to uncover secrets buried for thousands of years. Join the giant dig pit and try your hand as a mini archaeologist, crack the code to escape from a tomb and embark on a night at the museum with Ancient Egyptian themed movie nights.

Discover the wonders of the night sky at Sydney Observatory alongside expert star gazers. Learn how ancient cultures interpreted the night sky and make a time capsule for future archaeologists to find. Step back in time at the Museums Discovery Centre and learn from past explorers and historians to dream up your own ancient civilisation.

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

Dig Discovery Zone, FREE 17 December – 30 January, 10am – 5pm
Search for lost artefacts in a giant 20 metre dig pit, using archaeological tools to uncover the lives of ancient Egyptians and what they left behind. There is a special pit for under-fives.

Rosita Stone Escape Room, Sunday 15 January, 11am and 1pm
Find yourself in a tomb about to collapse and you have to crack the code to escape! Join Western Sydney University experts and learn the art of linguistic code cracking.

Mummy Movie Night, Saturday 21 January, 6pm
Settle in for a movie inspired by Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives and join an after-hours exclusive exhibition viewing.

SYDNEY OBSERVATORY

Family Day and Night Tours, throughout January
Discover the wonders of the night sky through immersive astronomy experiences alongside expert Observatory guides.

Twilight Extravaganza: Ancient Skies, 19 January, 5pm
Watch the sky change as the sun goes down on Observatory Hill. Discover how ancient cultures have viewed and used the skies and hear ancient stories about our universe.

MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE

Ancient Worlds, FREE 3 – 30 January, 11.00 am – 3.00 pm
Mine the collections of MAAS, the Australian Museum and Sydney Living Museums to learn about historic civilizations. Join the collective build of artefacts such as tombs and pyramids.

EXHIBITION DETAILS:
What: Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives
When: 10 December 2016 – 25 April 2017
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Adults $27 Concession $25 Children $16 Family Pass $65
POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007

SYDNEY OBSERVATORY
1003 Upper Fort Street, Millers Point NSW 2000

MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE
172 Showground Road, Castle Hill NSW 2154
FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Ogilvy PR: Jason Evans | jason@pulsecom.com.au | 0431 120 966
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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EGYPTIAN MUMMIES: EXPLORING ANCIENT LIVES WORLD PREMIERE

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Cutting-edge technology reveals the secrets of mummies from the British Museum in a world premiere exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum

10 December 2016 – 25 April 2017

Sydney, Australia: The world premiere of Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives will open at the Powerhouse Museum next month. Ancient cultures meet modern technologies in this exhibition that takes audiences beyond the wrappings to reveal the mysteries of mummification buried for thousands of years. Australian audiences will have a chance to see inside mummies from the British Museum collection via the latest non-evasive computed tomography (CT) scan and 3D visualisation technology when the exhibition opens in Sydney on 10 December 2016.

The six mummies, who lived and died in Egypt between 1800 and 3000 years ago, were scanned at Royal Brompton Hospital in London. They will be displayed in their historical, geographical and social contexts alongside 200 objects exploring themes such as mummification, gods and goddesses, personal adornment, state of health and medicine, food and diet, musical instruments, and childhood. Visitors will be able to virtually peel back the layers of history through interactive 3D visualisations of CT scans and discover for themselves six carefully mummified individuals.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees, said: “This is a rare opportunity to get a close-up look at the mummies of the British Museum. They are in exceptional condition and now, thanks to modern technology, we are able to uncover their stories and secrets while preserving their dignity and leaving them intact. With a combination of Egyptian history and interactive science, Egyptian Mummies is the ideal family exhibition this summer,” said Ms Merrillees.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant, said: “This exciting exhibition will fascinate both children and adults presenting six very different individuals from the ancient world. The exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to experience the intersection of art and science that this game changing technology enables,” said Minister Grant.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events, Stuart Ayres, said: “This Summer, visitors to Sydney can journey back in time to Ancient Egypt. Egyptian Mummies will travel to Australia for the first time, making Sydney the inaugural destination for visitors to meet these individuals and discover more about their stories,” said Minister Ayres.

Co-Curator of the exhibition, Project Curator at the British Museum and Egyptologist, Marie Vandenbeusch said: “Egyptian Mummies is a unique opportunity to discover more about life and death in ancient Egypt. British Museum’s curators, scientists and conservators combined their knowledge to explore CT scan data and study objects from the museum’s vast collection, providing a unique insight into the life of six ancient individuals.”

Throughout summer there will be an extensive public program for all the family. Children can try their hand at archaeology with a 20 metre long Giant Archaeological Dig pit, which will be installed in the Powerhouse Museum amongst many other free summer school holiday activities. There will be an exciting series of talks and events including a lecture series titled Death and Dying that will take place throughout the duration of the exhibition and school holiday periods. There will also be curator tours and expert talks from Macquarie University and the Australian Centre for Egyptology revealing the science behind archaeological practices and CT scanning techniques. Please see website for details: https://maas.museum

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACTS: For interviews with British Museum visiting curators, MAAS curator of Egyptology Melanie Pitkin, and general press inquiries, please contact
Claire Martin, Articulate 0414 437 588, Claire@articulatepr.com.au
Kym Elphinstone, Articulate 0421 106 139 Kym@articulatepr.com.au
Eli Wallis, MAAS 0402 359 016 eli.wallis@maas.museum

EXHIBITION DETAILS:
What: Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives
When: 10 December 2016 – 25 April 2017
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price: Adults $27 Concession $25 Children $16 Family Pass $65

MEDIA PREVIEW: Thursday 8 December, 11am

Images available for download here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tteuxoeurlj4mjw/AAAV9zaGFjT16g9k4b7NMgz4a?dl=0v

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About the British Museum
Founded in 1753, the British Museum was the first national public museum in the world. From the outset it was a museum of the world, for the world, and this idea still lies at the heart of the Museum’s mission today. The collection tells the stories of cultures across the world, from the dawn of human history, over two million years ago, to the present. Objects range from the earliest tools made by humans and treasures from the ancient world to more recent acquisitions from Africa, Oceania and the Americas, the Middle East, Asia and Europe, as well as the national collections of prints and drawings, and coins and medals. In addition to work in London, the Museum takes part in an extensive programme of loans and tours, both across the UK and throughout the world.

About CT scanning: Please note that all CT scans were performed on days that did not impact on patient use.

http://www.britishmuseum.org

Meet the Mummies

Nestawedjat, Third Intermediate Period, 25th Dynasty, about 700–680 BC

Nestawedjat was a married woman belonging to a wealthy family from Thebes, a major religious centre in ancient Egypt. Her carefully mummified body is an excellent example of ancient Egyptian mummification.

Tamut, Third Intermediate Period, early 22nd Dynasty, about 900 BC

Daughter of Khonsumose, a priest of the god Amun, king of the gods. Tamut was from a high-status family and was buried with many amulets and other ritual trappings believed to have magical powers that would protect the deceased and help her to gain immortality. CT scans also show she has plaque in her arteries and suffered from artheroscerosis.

Irthorru, Late Period, 26th Dynasty, about 600 BC

A priest from the town of Akhmim, situated about 200 km north of Thebes (modern Luxor). Several amulets were placed on his body to protect him and ensure rebirth in the afterlife. His gilded mask is gold which was thought to symbolise the skin of the gods. CT scans reveal Irthorru’s dental health was very poor, with several missing teeth.

Temple Singer, Third Intermediate Period, 22nd Dynasty, around 800 BC

Although we do not know her name, the inscription on this woman’s cartonnage case tells us that she was a priestess – more precisely a Singer of the Interior of Amun. CT scans reveal that a few amulets were found inside her abdomen and numerous small pellets – probably gold – were scattered on her body.

A young child from the Roman Period, Roman Period, about AD 40–60

In ancient Egypt few children appear to have been mummified. CT scans confirm that the boy was around two years old. His spine and ribs were damaged, possibly during mummification, but his body was wrapped with great care and placed in a gilded and finely decorated cartonnage.

A young man from Roman Egypt, Roman period, about AD 140–180

Mummification continued to be practised when Roman rulers took over Egypt in 30 BC but the techniques evolved. One major innovation was ‘mummy portraits’ on wooden. This mummy of a man with his lifelike portrait was among the first mummies with such an image to reach Europe.

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OCTOBER

DR DAVID SUZUKI LIVE AT THE POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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“Just looking at the world in the way Indigenous people do will change everything.” Dr David Suzuki

Celebrated international environmental campaigner Dr David Suzuki will present a free panel discussion at the Powerhouse Museum as part of a new series from Indigi Lab that encourages community discussion about issues facing humanity, such as environmental sustainability, arts, science and social justice.

Joining Dr Suzuki on the panel will be Deputy Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Robynne Quiggin and Director of the Ngunnawal Centre and Dean of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership and Strategy at the University of Canberra Professor Peter Radoll. The panel will be hosted by Channel Seven science and technology reporter Djuro Sen.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said this is a unique opportunity to hear from world-renowned thought-leaders. “David Suzuki is a much-admired champion of environmental issues. This is a rare opportunity to hear him in conversation with Indigenous leaders and learn from the rich wisdom gathered on this special panel.”

The topic of the first Indigi Lab STREAMS IQ: I discussion will be Indigenous science, Indigenous social rights and Indigenous-led environmental management. Ideas discussed by the panel have come about from the inaugural MAAS Indigenous Sciences Symposium, which took place in August as part of Sydney Science Festival.

Indigi Lab is a non-profit education facilitator that builds upon over 40,000 years of Indigenous Australian science and invention to foster career paths in science, technology and innovation for Indigenous students. Their mission is to recognise and further develop the scientific knowledge of Australia’s first generations of people and harness them for future applications. With over 1,500 generations behind them, today’s students have a huge legacy of innovation to draw from.

Event details:
What: Indigi Lab STREAMS IQ: I with Dr David Suzuki
When: Friday 28 October, 10.30am–12pm
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Tickets: FREE but registrations are essential
Read more: maas.museum/event/maas-presents-indigi-lab-streams-iq-i-with-dr-david-suzuki/
Head shot of Dr David Suzuki available here:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4kdve1y10z1uhya/Dr-David-Suzuki%20%28002%29.png?dl=0

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

For media enquiries contact Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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SEPTEMBER

MAASive LATES: DIGITAL FUTURES FREE ADULTS ONLY NIGHT AT POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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Take a glimpse into the future at MAASive Lates: Digital Futures on Thursday 27 October at the Powerhouse Museum. Discover the possibilities and potential of digital technologies in a free, adults-only night of performances, tours and experiences.

Digital technology is increasingly intertwined with our daily lives, shaping the ways we get information, make art, design and communicate. Following the opening of Out of Hand: Materialising the Digital this month, be among the first to get a close up look at technologies shaping the future of art, design and manufacturing.

Enjoy curator-led tours of Out of Hand: Materialising the Digital where the past, present and future of design practices are all on display in objects such as 3D printed clothing, medical implants, coral reefs and vehicles. Delve further into the history of technology design with the exhibition Interface. Entry to both exhibitions will be free for one night only.

Get hands-on with science and design at MAASive Lates: Digital Futures as you learn how 3D scanning works; take home a digital 3D portrait of your own face; create a hologram; take the Turing Test and determine if poetry was composed by a ‘bot or not’; build computing circuits and join a scenario thinking workshop with Josh Wodak, Associate Lecturer of Art and Design at UNSW.

Speed Meet a Designer to have all your design and technology questions tackled by professionals such as architects, industrial designers, textile designers, graphic designers, jewellery designers, curators and academics from UTS and UNSW.

Immerse yourself in an interactive installation by Sebastian Barkoczy and dance into the future with a digital-inspired performance by multi-platform creative collective PELVIS.

MAASive Lates: Digital Futures is a free, adults-only event that will inspire and entertain. Each MAASive Lates event expands upon themes that underpin current exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum and embody the MAAS commitment to being a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds.

Tickets to MAASive Lates: Digital Futures are free but limited. To register for tickets visit https://maas.museum/event/maasive-lates-digital-futures/
Entry to Out of Hand: Materialising the Digital is free for one night only on 27 October
The Junction Café and licenced bar will be open

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS)
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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ICONS: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES

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Priceless, microscopic, ancient, controversial, lucky and one-of-a-kind are just a few of the ways to describe the objects from the collection of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) that are on display in Icons, opening at the Powerhouse Museum on 15 October 2016.

Chosen from a collection of over 500,000, these objects have been specifically selected to challenge visitors to interrogate the notion of what makes an icon, and think more deeply about what makes an object significant to a community, a place and a time.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the choice of what to include wasn’t always easy.

“Finalising which objects to feature in Icons sparked lively discussions within the team. Everyone has a different notion of what makes an icon, which is really the point of the exhibition, but in a collection as broad ours, the proposition poses vast possibilities.”

“From the priceless Boulton and Watt rotative engine, to the Apple 1 computer and cochlear implants, these are objects which have changed and shaped the world, and tell a story of creativity, ingenuity and innovation,” said Ms Merrillees.

Icons curator and MAAS Head of Curatorial, Jacqui Strecker, says the exhibition also examines the role of Museums as collecting institutions that shape our understanding of the past and anticipate our future.

“Museum collections are heavily influenced by notions of taste, connoisseurship, knowledge, judgement and historical significance. There is a definite skill to interpreting our contemporary context and discerning what is likely to hold significance in 10, 50 or 500 years’ time. In Icons we were able to present some of the Museum’s most admired and valuable objects alongside lesser known and more eccentric items, inviting a second look as they each have an important story to tell,” said Dr Strecker.

Coinciding with the opening of Icons, MAAS has developed an app enabling visitors to take a self-guided tour of the exhibition and discover the stories behind each object. In a first for the Museum, the exhibition also uses cutting-edge 3D scanning technology to allow visitors to explore 3D models of a selection of the objects via interactive touchscreen displays.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a catalogue which includes essays by leading curators and award-winning Australian author Drusilla Modjeska, that contextualise the collection’s significance to modern Australia and future generations.

Discover treasures from across time at Icons, an exhibition exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney.

Exhibition details:
What: Icons
When: opening 15 October 2016
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Read more: https://maas.museum/event/icons

Catalogue details:
Icons from the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Collection
Available from October 2016 at MAAS Store or online at
https://maas.museum/product-category/book/
RRP $39.95

MAAS App available via the Apple and Android app stores from 15 October.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS)
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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AUGUST

GO BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE STATE’S GREAT COLLECTIONS

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For the first time, the diverse and rich collections of three of Australia’s leading museums will be housed in one facility and on permanent display to the public.

The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), the Australian Museum and Sydney Living Museums have collaborated to open the new Museums Discovery Centre (MDC) at Castle Hill. These museums care for millions of objects and specimens as part of the NSW’s state collections, providing insights into engineering, architecture, science, art, transport, fashion, design, health, technology, natural history, domestic life, Indigenous and Pacific cultures and more.

To celebrate this historic collaboration, the Museums Discovery Centre will be open free to the public on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September. Visitors on the weekend will be the first to experience the treasures from three of Sydney’s favourite museum under the one roof, and learn about museum collecting, conservation and research practices.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant, said the Museums Discovery Centre was a unique collaboration.

“The Museums Discovery Centre is an Australian first collaboration, which brings together three of our state’s major museums to increase public access and offer a completely unique museum experience.”

Minister for Environment and Heritage, Mark Speakman said the Museums Discovery Centre was a state of the art cultural facility.

“The 9,000 square metre refurbished deep stores, shared by each of the museums, and upgraded public display stores provide NSW with facilities of an international standard, enhancing the public’s access to these great collections and the museums’ capacity to care for their collections for generations to come.”

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said visitors would gain a new appreciation for the world of museums.

“Visiting the Museums Discovery Centre is an experience like no other offered in Australia. Many of the items in the display stores have never been exhibited before, and there are many more treasures to be seen by taking a booked tour through the deep stores where the museum staff work day to day.”

Australian Museum Director and CEO, Kim McKay AO, said that the Museums Discovery Centre was unique in that it brings together the most significant objects from three much-loved museums.

“Together, we’re giving the public unprecedented access to explore the diverse collections of three distinctly different museums, all of whom share the responsibility of safeguarding our shared history and helping to promote an understanding of the world around us.”

Sydney Living Museums Executive Director, Mark Goggin, said that the MDC would provide a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the connections between three of NSW’s great cultural collections.

“The Museums Discovery Centre enables us to reveal the many stories of history and heritage interspersed though our combined collections and share this knowledge with visitors through collaborative displays, tours and education programs.”

The MDC houses objects as large as the Ice Bird yacht from Dr David Lewis’s exploration of Antarctica, and as small as rare butterflies; as ancient as a 20,000 year old Paleolithic artefact from Mossel Bay in South Africa, and as locally significant as furnishings from historic NSW homes.

Many objects at MDC will be on public display for the first time, along with hundreds of objects that would usually be in storage, offering unprecedented access to the collections of the three museums.

From 19 September the Museums Discover Centre will be open to the public from Monday to Friday every week, and four weekends per year for open weekends. A range of free and paid programs will also be on offer throughout the school holidays.

Museums Discovery Centre
170 Showground Road, Castle Hill

• Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10am to 5pm
• Admission: $10 adult, $8 concession, children 16 years and under free
• Opening weekend: 17-18 September, 10am-5pm, free admission

See museumsdiscoverycentre.com or further information.

– ENDS –

Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS)
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

Australian Museum (AM)
Australian Museum (AM), founded in 1827, is the nation’s first museum, and is an internationally recognised natural science and culture institution focused on Australia and the Pacific. As custodian of more than 18 million objects, the AM is uniquely positioned to provide a greater understanding of the region through its scientific research, exhibitions and public and education programs. Through the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), the AM also has a leading role in conserving Australia’s biodiversity through understanding the environmental impacts of climate change, potential biosecurity threats and invasive species.

Sydney Living Museums (SLM)
Sydney Living Museums manages and cares for a group of 12 of the most important historic houses, gardens and museums in NSW, from Elizabeth Farm and Vaucluse House to Susannah Place Museum and Museum of Sydney. SLM’s purpose is to enrich and revitalise people’s lives with Sydney’s living history, and to hand the precious places in its care and their collections on to future generations to enjoy. Sydney Living Museums’ collection comprises more than 45,000 objects with an additional 250,000 archaeological artefacts including material from two of Australia’s most significant historic archaeological digs – Hyde Park Barracks and First Government House Sydney.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
MAAS: Eli Wallis | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016
AM: Rohan Astley | rohan.astley@austmus.gov.au | 9320 6086 / 0407 215 392
SLM: Hayley Gallant | hayleyga@sydneylivingmuseums.com.au | 8239 2318 / 0403 848 163

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MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES APPOINTS TWO NEW DIRECTORS

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New curatorial and programs directors have been announced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS). Peter Denham, Director of the Museum of Brisbane, has been appointed Director, Curatorial, Collections & Exhibitions and Tristan Sharp, with over 15 years’ experience in arts education and programming, has been appointed as a Director of Programs and Engagement.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the appointments came at a key time for the Museum.

“With Museum visitation on the rise there is increased public appetite for engagement with the MAAS collection, be it through exhibitions or our public and education programs. Both Peter and Tristan join the MAAS team at an exciting period in the Museum’s growth. The curatorial and programs teams will each play a key role in the planning and implementation of MAAS Parramatta. We are very pleased to welcome them both to our team.”

Peter Denham joins MAAS with over 25 years’ experience in the cultural sector. His curatorial experience includes roles at Queensland Art Gallery, Cairns Regional Gallery and National Gallery of Victoria. He has been at the Museum of Brisbane since 2006. Under his Directorship the Museum has won several exhibition awards and undergone a major building restoration and building project.

Peter studied at the Royal Society of Arts in London and holds a Master of Arts in Cultural Leadership from Griffith University, where he was awarded an Academic Excellence award. In 2015 Peter was awarded a Churchill Fellowship, which saw him travel to more than 100 museums around the world. He has been widely published and has held Board positions with Queensland Art Workers Alliance and Flying Arts and currently holds a position on an Advisory Board for the Griffith University Centre for Social and Cultural Research.

Tristan Sharp comes to MAAS with over 15 years’ experience in public engagement and education programming in both the public and private sector with a strong focus on delivery and customer service/audience engagement. With a background in arts education, Tristan has held roles at Campbelltown Bicentennial Art Gallery, Newcastle Art Gallery, Art Gallery New South Wales, Australia Council and most recently Westpac Group.

Tristan began his career as a Visual Arts Teacher and holds a Master of Arts Administration from the University of New South Wales. He has curated several exhibitions and has received industry awards from Museums Australia and the Art Gallery Society of NSW.

Peter and Tristan join the MAAS Executive alongside Dolla Merrillees, MAAS Director, Leann Meiers Director Development & External Affairs, Andrew Elliott, Director Corporate Resources and CFO, and Michael Parry, Director MAAS Parramatta Project.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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SYDNEY SCIENCE FESTIVAL COUNTDOWN TO LAUNCH

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The countdown is on with Sydney Science Festival 2016 and Collider launching this month. The Festival rockets into venues across Sydney with a stellar line up of science superstars and over 100 events, from Thursday 11 to Sunday 21 August, 2016. From the London Science Museum, Collider opens on 6 August and runs until October.

As part of National Science Week, the festival offers talks, exhibitions, and family friendly events. Promising 11 days of engagement, exploration and discovery, Festival highlights include:
• MAASive Lates: Science – Hosted by special guest Dr Lisa Harvey-Smith and featuring Dr. Alan Duffy, this free, adults-only event will be a night of science-inspired activities, presentations, performances and music. Thursday 11 August, Powerhouse Museum
• Collider – The exhibition that takes you behind-the-scenes at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) particle physics laboratory in Geneva, home of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). 6 August – 30 October, Powerhouse Museum
• Sydney Mini Maker Faire – Sydney’s best Makers, from a wide range of disciplines, come together to showcase their creations and share the wonder of invention with the public. 13-14 August, Powerhouse Museum
• Winning Sky Photos – Exhibition that showcases top entries from the David Malin Awards annual competition for amateur astronomers and photographers. 13 – 30 October, Sydney Observatory
• Super Science Saturday – Science comes to life with explosive shows and your chance to participate in scientific explorations. Saturday 13 August, Australian Museum
• The Secret Life of Eels – Learn about the history of Parramatta’s eels and create your own eel to take home. Saturday 20 August, Parramatta Park
• The Indigenous Science Experience – Meet local elders and learn about Indigenous science. Sunday 21 August, Redfern Community Centre.
• Science in the Swamp – Treating families to some outdoor fun and the chance to get little hands dirty with some outdoor science. Saturday 13 August, Centennial Park
• Powerhouse Museum Family Day – A day of hands-on science for all the family. Sunday 21 August, Powerhouse Museum

Be inspired by the talks from leading names in science including:
• Dr Alan Duffy will explains how CERN’s Largest Hadron Collider works in The world’s greatest science experiment. Friday 12 August, Powerhouse Museum
• British physicist Professor Brian Cox explores some of the universe’s great unanswered questions in A Journey into Deep Space. Thursday 11 August, State Theatre
• New York Genspace co-founder and director Dr. Ellen Jorgensen joins a panel of experts in Biohacking: Why should we care? Friday 19 August, UTS Great Hall
• A special guest appearance by Australia’s favourite Dr. Karl Kruszelnicki in BAHFest, promising an evening of wit and horrendous inaccuracies. Friday 19 August, Powerhouse Museum
• NASA’s New Horizons journalist Amy Shira Teitel makes science relatable in Amy Shira Teitel Talks Science. Thursday 18 August, Powerhouse Museum

The full Sydney Science Festival program is available online at www.sydneyscience.com.au. For more information about National Science Week events visit www.scienceweek.net.au.

The Sydney Science Festival is produced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences as part of National Science Week, with support from Principal Partner, Microsoft.

Science fans can make the most of the Festival by purchasing one of two Festival Passes:
• MAAS Science Festival Pass allows science lovers to enjoy unlimited daytime access to the Powerhouse Museum and free entries to the events worth over $200, for only $25.
• MAAS Science Festival Premium Pass boasts additional benefits including free entry to talks by Australia’s hottest scientist and festival ambassador Dr Alan Duffy and Amy Shira Teitel, for only $45.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Anne Belgar: anne@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0431 264 358
Matt Fraser: matt@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0401 326 007

Follow Sydney Science Festival on:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sydneysciencefestival
Twitter: @SydScienceFest
#ssf16

Event: Sydney Science Festival
Dates: 11 – 21 August, 2016
Website: www.sydneyscience.com.au

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JULY

SYDNEY DESIGN FESTIVAL 2016 PROGRAM ANNOUNCED

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The Sydney Design Festival 2016 program has been released, featuring over 100 events in venues across Sydney from 2 – 11 September. Make or Break is the theme for this year’s festival and is embodied in the program’s range of exhibitions, talks and workshops.

Since 1996 the Sydney Design Festival has championed leading design practices from Australia and abroad. The festival is led by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) in collaboration with over 50 museums, galleries, universities, design studios, businesses, and community organisations across greater Sydney and NSW.

“Design impacts our lives in both obvious and undetected ways. Over the history of the festival some of the concepts, trends and models presented have become parts of the everyday while others have disappeared. The events in this year’s festival have a common theme of make or break, which highlights a fundamental step in design; to create something new by reimagining the old.” said festival director, Janson Hews.

A festival highlight, the Out of Hand: Materialising the Digital exhibition will open on 3 September. A collaboration between MAAS and the Museum of Arts and Design, New York (MAD), Out of Hand explores the increasingly important role of digital manufacture in contemporary art, science, design and architecture. From Iris van Herpen’s Bubble Dress to the world’s first 3D printed jet engine, created by Monash Advanced Manufacturing, the exhibition showcases over 90 artworks and objects materialised using new digital technologies and the world’s best design practices.

Regional NSW arts community The Cad Factory has gathered artists from across the Narrandera region to create Shadow Places. Exploring the impact of design and manufacturing on rural areas and agricultural communities, Shadow Places is a huge artwork combining textiles, agricultural objects, projections and soundscapes. This multimedia installation will loom large in the Powerhouse Museum throughout the festival.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

The inaugural The Really Goods Line Day will celebrate the award-winning design of The Goods Line in Ultimo with a day of performances, talks and entertainment. Designed by ASPECT Studios and opened in 2015, The Goods Line connects the Powerhouse Museum, University of Technology of Sydney, the ABC and Central Station via a 500 metre pedestrian walk designed and landscaped from disused railway tracks.

Take the Virtual Reality Family Challenge as family members use communication and problem-solving skills to escape a virtual Panic Room. Creative kids can put their inventor instincts to work at free Makers and Breakers making workshops at the Powerhouse Museum each weekend of the festival. For more artistically minded kids, Parramatta Clay and Arts Inc is holding weekend clay workshops during the festival.

Handy people can build a bamboo bike in one day that they will ride home with Bamboo Bike Hack at MakerSpace & company. Foodies will unite in awe as Harry+Matt deliver a gastronomic performance in Don’t Play With Your Food. Create an original, edible artwork out of fresh produce in Superlocalstudio’s Plant Planet workshop.

A series of engaging talks will feature presentations from leading design professionals in events that highlight the intersection of design with other industries such as medicine, hospitality, sustainability planning and indigenous art history. Beginning with a panel of design professionals discussing Visual Culture in a Digital World on the opening night of the festival, other talk highlights include Pecha Kucha: Sink or Swim featuring celebrated Australian artist Ken Done, Colour and Trends Forecast 2017, and Designing Human Experience by General Assembly. An industry symposium about Interactive Media will bring together design professionals, researchers and educators, presented by UNSW Faculty of Art & Design. A Keynote talk by Microsoft’s Design Guru, Kat Holmes will round out the program. Golden Age Cinema and Bar will present a special screening of Jean-Luc Godard’s cult 1965 dystopian sci-fi film Alphaville.

The full Sydney Design Festival program is available online at www.sydneydesign.com.au

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

Sydney Design Festival
2 – 11 September 2016
www.sydneydesign.com.au

Follow Sydney Design Festival on:
Facebook:      www.facebook.com/sydneydesign
Twitter:           @syddes
#sdf16

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GLOVER TO LEAD MAAS TRUST

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Vice-Chancellor of Western Sydney University Professor Barney Glover has been appointed President of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Trust and will play a pivotal role in the Powerhouse Museum’s relocation to Parramatta.

Robotics and intelligence systems research and development expert Professor Salah Sukkarieh is also a new member of the trust, and has been involved with MAAS through the successful Mars Lab project.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts Troy Grant said the appointments come as the museum undergoes a once-in-a-generation renewal and relocation to Western Sydney.

“Professor Glover knows and works in Western Sydney and has a long record of success in management and leadership in research and major capital development projects,” Mr Grant said.

Professor Glover said he looks forward to leading the board after being a trust member since January 2015.

“I’m particularly excited about working with the Museum team as we plan one of the most significant cultural infrastructure projects of recent times in the heart of Western Sydney,” Professor Glover said.

MAAS Director Dolla Merrillees welcomed Professor Glover’s Presidency as well as Professor Sukkarieh’s appointment to the Trust and said she looks forward to building the Museum’s relationship with them both.

Deputy Premier Grant thanked outgoing President Professor John Shine AO for his dedicated service to the trust.

“Professor Shine has been an exceptional president and since taking the post more than four years ago, has taken the Museum in an exciting new direction and a period of growth,’’ Mr Grant said.

Professor Shine said it was a privilege to serve as the President of the MAAS Board of Trustees throughout a period of immense change and growth for MAAS.

“I congratulate Professor Glover and with the newly appointed Director Dolla Merrillees at the helm I look forward to following the success of this team as they continue to build audiences, ongoing programs and a new museum in Parramatta,” Professor Shine said.

MEDIA: Jarrad Schwark (Deputy Premier) 0429 234 308

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MAASive Lates: Science
Sydney Science Festival launch at Powerhouse Museum

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Expand your mind with a free evening of science and discovery at MAASive Lates: Science on Thursday 11 August at the Powerhouse Museum. MAASive Lates: Science will launch the Sydney Science Festival, running at venues across Sydney from 11 – 21 August, as part of National Science Week.

Journey into the world’s greatest science experiment in Collider, from the Science Museum, London. Through this exhibition, be amongst the first to take a behind-the-scenes look at the CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) particle physics laboratory in Geneva. This facility houses the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), which proved the existence of the Higgs boson, otherwise referred to as the ‘God Particle’.

MAASive Lates: Science will be hosted by CSIRO astronomer Lisa Harvey-Smith. Joining Harvey-Smith on stage for two in-conversation sessions will be special guest, astrophysicist Dr Alan Duffy. Hear from Australian CERN researchers who will give an insider’s perspective on what it is like to work on the world’s greatest science experiment. Speed Meet a Geek is a chance to have your science questions answered by an impressive line-up of astronomers, physicists, biologists, mathematicians, engineers and environmental scientists.

Play periodic table scrabble, drive a Mars Rover at the Mars Lab, participate in a virtual reality game of Panic Room at Thinkspace and make some furry friends at the Taronga Zoomobile.

MAASive Lates: Science is a free, adults-only event that will inspire and entertain. Held four times a year, each MAASive Lates event expands upon themes that underpin current exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum and embody the MAAS commitment to being a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds.

Tickets to MAASive Lates events are free but limited:
To register for tickets visit https://sydneyscience.com.au/event/maasive-lates-science-2/
Entry to Collider is discounted for one night only on 11 August: Adult $14 / Concession $10
The Junction Café and licenced bar will be open

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au

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JUNE

OUT OF HAND: MATERIALISING THE DIGITAL POWERHOUSE MUSEUM EXCLUSIVE

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Experience the future of design and manufacturing technology at Out of Hand, an exhibition exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, curated by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) and the Museum of Arts and Design, New York (MAD).

Opening on 3 September 2016, this cutting-edge exhibition will showcase over 90 artworks and objects materialised using new digital technologies and the world’s best design practices. Exhibition highlights include designs created by 3D printing, digital knitting and CNC machining, technologies disrupting traditional manufacturing practices.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, says this is an exhibition with resonance across many industries.

“As the first generation of digital natives enter adulthood, this exhibition offers a look into technologies and techniques which once appeared futuristic and are now becoming available for you to employ yourself at home,” said Ms Merrillees.

“Working with the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, we’ve had the opportunity to explore the boundaries of design and manufacturing practice, with a particular focus on the Asia Pacific region. This exhibition ranges from pieces that are spectacular to those which are unassuming, but all with fascinating stories.”

MAAS curator, Matthew Connell, says the exhibition gives visitors a glimpse into the future.

“Technology and design on display in Out of Hand will shape tomorrow’s world. Visitors can experience new technologies and discover how their applications will impact our future lives,” said Mr Connell.

Pushing the application of 3D printing to new heights, see the world’s first 3D printed jet engine, created in Australia by Monash Advanced Manufacturing and demonstrating the capacity for a vastly superior performance to weight ratio compared to existing jet engines. Bringing 3D printing into the everyday, examples of 3D printed clothing will be on display including a Michael Schmidt design originally modelled by Dita Von Teese.

Other works showcase how digital technology can record and reinterpret ancient artworks, unrealised designs and fossils without tampering with them, used to dramatic effect in the reimagining of Umberto Boccioni’s 1913 Futurist work Unique Forms of Continuity in Space by American artist Barry X Ball’s Perfect Forms. Also on display for the first time will be the most recent MAAS acquisition; the Iris van Herpen Bubble Dress from the AW2016 collection which uses wearable mirrors to create the illusion of moving bubbles.

Out of Hand opens during the annual Sydney Design Festival, which celebrates the best of design and runs at venues across Sydney from 2 – 11 September. This year’s festival theme is Make or Break and will examine the role of commercial success for designers and the trend for deconstructed production methods.

Exhibition details:
What: Out of Hand: Materialising the Digital
https://maas.museum/event/out-of-hand-materialising-the-digital/
When: 3 September 2016 – June 2017
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Images available for download from Dropbox: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/vd1reibcz5p2b6y/AADiXQlNmr93_6E2xY5ktGbea?dl=0

Sydney Design Festival
2 – 11 September 2016
http://www.sydneydesign.com.au

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

For media enquiries, contact:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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EGYPTIAN MUMMIES: EXPLORING ANCIENT LIVES, POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) will host the Australian premiere of Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives, an acclaimed exhibition from the British Museum, opening on 10 December at the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney.

In a rare close-up look, Egyptian Mummies will use the latest CT scanning technology and 3D visualisation to take visitors beyond the coffin to uncover what lies beneath layers of history buried for thousands of years. Six mummies who lived and died in Egypt between 1800 and 3000 years ago will be on display alongside almost 200 objects associated with funerary practices and daily life.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant, said the exhibition was a new way to explore a topic of interest to all ages.

“These mummies from the British Museum collection have remained wrapped for thousands of years but using cutting edge technology we can reveal for the first time their burial secrets while maintaining their integrity and ensuring their preservation,” said Minister Grant.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events, Stuart Ayres, said the exhibition will be a major drawcard for visitors to Sydney and is a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the lives of ancient Egyptians.

“This summer, visitors to Sydney can journey back in time to Ancient Egypt. The Egyptian Mummies will travel to Australia for the first time, making Sydney the inaugural destination for visitors to meet these individuals and discover more about their stories,” Mr Ayres said.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the exhibition provided a personal insight into these ancient lives.

“The new techniques used to virtually unwrap the mummies offers unprecedented details about their age, diet and health. Being able to see an individual from the remote past, how tall they were, their skin, their face and hair is a powerful and moving experience.”

“Following the huge success of our most recent summer exhibition, Art of the Brick , which attracted crowds of over 165,000 people, we look forward to Egyptian Mummies being the must-see blockbuster exhibition this summer,” said Ms Merrillees.

Mummies selected from the British Museum collection can be viewed in the exhibition alongside the 3D visualisations, which peel back the layers of history to reveal the age, gender, nutrition, lifestyle and final mummification of each body.

In-depth research also reveals details as significant as the individual’s last meal to mistakes made by the embalmer during the mummification process. From a temple singer from Thebes to a 2-year old Roman child and a priest of Akhmim, these six well-preserved mummies reveal the stories of their lives.

Exhibition details:
What: Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives
When: 10 December 2016 – 30 April 2017
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007

Tickets on sale from August. For more information see
maas.museum/event/egyptian-mummies

Images available for download from DropBox
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tteuxoeurlj4mjw/AAAV9zaGFjT16g9k4b7NMgz4a?dl=0

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About the British Museum
Founded in 1753, the British Museum was the first national public museum in the world. From the outset it was a museum of the world, for the world, and this idea still lies at the heart of the Museum’s mission today. The collection tells the stories of cultures across the world, from the dawn of human history, over two million years ago, to the present. Objects range from the earliest tools made by humans and treasures from the ancient world to more recent acquisitions from Africa, Oceania and the Americas, the Middle East, Asia and Europe, as well as the national collections of prints and drawings, and coins and medals. In addition to work in London, the Museum takes part in an extensive programme of loans and tours, both across the UK and throughout the world.

http://www.britishmuseum.org/

For media enquiries, contact:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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SYDNEY SCIENCE FESTIVAL 2016 PROGRAM ANNOUNCED

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The Sydney Science Festival 2016 program has been released, boasting a stellar line up of science superstars in events for all ages, staged in venues across Sydney from Thursday 11 to Sunday 21 August, 2016.

The spectacular program features talks from some of the world’s leading names in science including Australia’s hottest scientist and festival ambassador, Dr Alan Duffy, British physicist Brian Cox, expert panels with Genspace co-founder and director, New York’s Dr. Ellen Jorgensen, and a special appearance from Australia’s favourite, Dr. Karl Kruszelnicki.

Now in its second year, the Sydney Science Festival is led by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), in collaboration with museums, galleries, universities, businesses, scientists, engineers and community organisations across greater Sydney, to deliver a vibrant 11-day program as part of National Science Week.

“Last year’s festival saw more than 39,000 science fans attend over 130 events, and we are looking forward to this year being event bigger. The program presents the opportunity to engage with the science of the everyday through to cutting-edge research and scientific discoveries” said MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees.

The Powerhouse Museum will be open after dark on Thursday 11 August for MAASive Lates: Science to launch the Sydney Science Festival and celebrate National Science Week . This free, adults-only event will be hosted by special guest Dr Lisa Harvey-Smith featuring festival ambassador, Dr. Alan Duffy, and includes an entertaining and practical night of science-inspired activities, presentations, performances and music.

A festival highlight, the Collider exhibition will open during the festival, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) particle physics laboratory in Geneva that houses the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The LHC is most famous for proving the existence of the Higgs boson, otherwise referred to as the ‘God Particle’.

Professor Brian Cox explores of some of the universe’s great unanswered questions in A Journey into Deep Space. Are we alone in the universe? Will we ever know what happened before the Big Bang? What was the origin of Life on Earth?

A welcome new event in the program is BAHFest, an evening of wit and horrendous inaccuracies, as brave speakers face a panel of real experts, who will judge their BAH-D scientific theories for the BAHFest trophy and nonsensical glory. Hosted by Alex Lee, best known for The Chaser’s Election Desk and The Checkout, with a special appearance from Dr Karl Kruszelnicki.

Genspace co-founder and director, Dr. Ellen Jorgensen joins a panel of experts for a free public discussion in Biohacking: Why should we care?

The Winning Sky Photos exhibition showcases top entries from the David Malin Awards, an annual photo competition for amateur astronomers and photographers.

The Sydney Mini Maker Faire returns for a fourth year of all things invention, creativity and community. The two-day faire provides an opportunity for Sydney’s best Makers, from a wide range of disciplines, to showcase their creations to the public. From metal casting to Arduino coders and 3D printing designers, share in the wonder of invention with passionate Makers from across NSW.

The Australian Museum opens its doors and brings science to life for the entire family for Super Science Saturday. Discover the science behind the museum with live animal shows, hands-on experiments and lectures. Get set for some outdoor fun with Science in the Swamp at Centennial Park. Pat a carp, play with some science toys in the outdoors or learn about venomous snakes, Science in the Swamp is a Festival favourite with little ones relishing in a range of fun activities.

Parramatta Park gets slimy when The Secret Life of Eels kicks off a day of eel exploration. Family fun continues with The Indigenous Science Experience at Redfern Community Centre, a day centered on demonstrating the value of traditional and contemporary Indigenous knowledge in science and technology.

NASA’s New Horizons journalist Amy Shira Teitel makes science relatable and encourages people to think about science and the universe in an accessible way. Join her in Amy Shira Teitel Talks Science, on Thursday 18 August 6pm, Powerhouse Museum.

The full Sydney Science Festival program is available online at www.sydneyscience.com.au. For more information about National Science Week events visit www.scienceweek.net.au.

The Sydney Science Festival is produced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences as part of National Science Week, with support from Principal Partner, Microsoft.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Matt Fraser: matt@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0401 326 007
Amy Owen amy@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0404 977 338

Follow Sydney Science Festival on:
Facebook:     www.facebook.com/sydneysciencefestival
Twitter:          @SydScienceFest
#ssf16

Event:            Sydney Science Festival
Dates:            11 – 21 August, 2016
Website:        www.sydneyscience.com.au

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RECORD NUMBERS VISIT SYDNEY’S FAVOURITE MUSEUMS

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SUNDAY 26 JUNE. SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: Thousands of families have enjoyed Sydney’s two leading museums for free this weekend – the Australian Museum (AM) and Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), in celebration of the NSW Government’s free kids policy at both museums.

Attracting nearly 70,000 visitors across the Australian Museum, Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory, the second annual Free Museum Weekend has been a huge hit with fans

“The Free Museum Weekend is to make science and culture accessible to everyone, and to remind Sydney-siders of the incredible world-class museums they have available to them.” Kim McKay AO, Australian Museum Director and CEO, said.

“We are thrilled to have welcomed so many visitors through our doors marking the first year of Kids Free at both Museums.”

The Australian Museum welcomed 30,279 people through its doors to experience its award-winning exhibition Trailblazers: Australia’s 50 greatest explorers as well as the new Wild Planet gallery.

Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory saw over 38,800 visitors across the weekend, who were among the first to participate in Tanabata: Star Village, a collaborative community art installation celebrating the Japanese fable of the night sky.

“Museums are places where life-long memories are created, and by working in collaboration with the Australian Museum we can facilitate discovery and inspire generations of Australians to dream, to imagine the possibilities and realise their ambitions,” Dolla Merrillees, Director of MAAS, said.

# ENDS #

Australian Museum (AM)
Australian Museum (AM), founded in 1827, is the nation’s first museum, and is an internationally recognised natural science and culture institution focused on Australia and the Pacific. As custodian of more than 18 million objects, the AM is uniquely positioned to provide a greater understanding of the region through its scientific research, exhibitions and public and education programs. Through the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), the AM also has a leading role in conserving Australia’s biodiversity through understanding the environmental impacts of climate change, potential biosecurity threats and invasive species.

Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS)
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
AM: Claire Vince, Media Advisor | claire.vince@austmus.gov.au | 9320 6181 / 0468 726 910
MAAS: Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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ANNETTE KELLERMAN AUSTRALIA’S MILLION DOLLAR MERMAID

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“I insist that swimming is not only a splendid sport for women but that it is the sport for women — the one sport … in which she can fully compete with men.” Annette Kellerman, Physical Beauty (1918)

Annette Kellerman pioneered competitive swimming for women, starred in American silent films, published books and inspired generations of women. Her life and achievements will now be honoured in a new exhibition, Million Dollar Mermaid: Annette Kellerman, at the Powerhouse Museum from 10 August 2016.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the exhibition shines a light on an important local personality.

“Annette Kellerman’s story has become legendary. She achieved an astonishing level of success, both at home and abroad, becoming an international celebrity as a swimmer, vaudeville entertainer, film star and a pioneer of women’s health and fitness. Her fame earned her the titles ‘The Australian Mermaid’, ‘The Diving Venus’ and ‘The Perfect Woman.’ This exhibition invites visitors to dive into the inspiring and entertaining story of this incredible Australian.”

Drawing extensively from the Museum’s performing arts collections and curated by Peter Cox the Million Dollar Mermaid exhibition will showcase Kellerman’s personal collection of costumes, photos, memorabilia and film footage. Highlights include various styles of her one-piece swimsuits, stage outfits and a spectacular costume from the Hollywood biopic Million Dollar Mermaid, in which Esther Williams portrayed Kellerman. The exhibition will include footage from the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia’s collection, showing Annette Kellerman performing an underwater adagio ballet in 1939. Multimedia artist collective 66b/cell has developed a visual installation with projection mapping where visitors will experience the beauty and artistry of Kellerman’s underwater performances in an immersive, sensory environment.

Born in Sydney in 1886, Kellerman took up swimming as a young child. She became a teenage champion, excelled at diving and set world records in swimming. Having outgrown the pools of Sydney and Melbourne, Kellerman relocated to London aged 18.

She made headlines for her marathon swims in the Thames, Seine and Danube rivers and was the first woman to attempt to swim the English Channel. At a time when female swimmers were expected to wear cumbersome garments, she defied convention with her practical self-styled one-piece swimsuits, one of which she created by sewing stockings onto a men’s bathing suit.

As her star rose, Kellerman developed a vaudeville act which she performed in England and the United States. It combined diving, swimming and graceful underwater ballet with the elaborate staging of tanks, waterfalls and slides, supported by a large cast of water nymphs performing routines that foreshadowed synchronised swimming.

Kellerman starred as a mermaid character in a series of feature films and performed her own dangerous stunts. She wrote self-help books titled How to Swim and Physical Beauty: How to Keep It, and began a health food business after retiring from performing.

An unmissable exhibition paying homage to an extraordinary Australian, Million Dollar Mermaid will be on display at the Powerhouse Museum until 2017.

Million Dollar Mermaid: Annette Kellerman
10 August 2016 – 2017
Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
Bookings: (02) 9217 0111 www.maas.museum
Opening hours: 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free with general admission: $15 adult, $8 concession, kids under 16 years free

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au

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Gravity (and Wonder)
Where art and science make waves
3 September – 27 November
Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest | Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences|
Western Sydney University

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Gravity invisibly governs the movement of the world, the shape of space and the flow of time. Gravity (and Wonder) explores human fascination with these fundamental aspects of the universe through scientific investigations and artistic explorations.

Marking the beginning of a long-term partnership between Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest and the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Gravity (and Wonder) is a vibrant three month program with a range of events, workshops and programs extending the themes of a central exhibition. The project collaborators are joined by education partner Western Sydney University, bringing its Penrith Observatory and academic expertise into the project alongside citizen science events to intrigue the community. Eminent astronomer and science communicator Professor Fred Watson AM is the patron of this multi-faceted project.

The Gravity (and Wonder) exhibition at Penrith Regional Gallery, curated by Dr Lee-Anne and Katie Dyer, will bring together rare scientific instruments and inventions, specialist objects and archival material from the collection of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences alongside the work of contemporary artists who examine gravity as phenomena and effect, mass and attraction, motion and acceleration, time and space and ultimately transcendence.

Director of the Penrith Regional Art Gallery & The Lewers Bequest, Dr Lee-Anne Hall, said the program was not to be missed.

“In Gravity (and Wonder) Western Sydney audiences can look forward to a three month journey of discovery, where art, science and creativity are brought together in a stunning program including exhibition, education, artist and scientist residencies, performance, public symposium and star gazing.”

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees said the project was a true collaboration between the partners.

“Partnerships play a significant role in bringing communities together and creating understanding of the world around us through collaboration. In beginning this long term partnership with Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest we are excited to explore how contemporary art practices can bring new understanding to objects in our collection.”

The exhibition will include sculpture by Richard Serra (USA), installations by Sandra Selig (Australia) and Amy Joy Watson (Australia), paintings by Mabel Juli and Rusty Peters (Warmun, Western Australia) kinetic sculptures by Marley Dawson (Australia), and video work by Hiraki Sawa (Japan). Australian artists David Haines and Joyce Hinterding will drop a sound from the edge of space and document its fall back to earth in a world-first commission which will also be documented through an online project.

The Gallery’s Lewers House will be transformed into a House of Wonder, hosting artists-in-residence working with scientists-in-residence, while the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre will play host to a Gravity Geeks Symposium, exploring the work of artists working with scientists to illuminate scientific concepts and related research concerning gravity. A gravity-defying performance element will also be part of the one-day event, which will be held on 5 November.

The public will also have the opportunity to experience the wonder of the night skies with Western Sydney University’s Penrith Observatory (8 October) and in the Gallery Garden (22 October) and via a Planetarium being installed onsite during the Symposium.

On show 3 September – 27 November 2016
Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest
86 River Road, Emu Plains 2750

FURTHER INFORMATION / INTERVIEWS / IMAGES
Krissie Scudds: Marketing Manager, PP&VA E: kscudds@bigpond.net.au | 0412 331 604
Rebekah Waite, Communications Manager, MAAS E: rebekah.waite@maas.museum | 0466 331 483

Project support
Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest is the inaugural recipient of the Dobell Exhibition Grant, a $40,000 gift from the Sir William Dobell Art Foundation, administered by Museums and Galleries NSW, with the purpose of developing exhibitions such as Gravity (and Wonder) that provide opportunities for development, engagement and enrichment of audiences, institutions and artists.

Additional support from key Penrith Performing & Visual Arts sponsors Celestino and Penrith Lakes Development Corporation will contribute to the successful delivery of Gravity public programs.

About Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest
Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest is set on the western bank of the Nepean River at the foot of the Blue Mountains at Emu Plains, and was established in 1981 at the former home and property of sculptor Gerald Lewers and painter Margo Lewers.

Within our beautiful heritage setting we aim to develop and maintain a visual arts centre of excellence and diversity for the enjoyment and benefit of the people of Penrith, the surrounding region and beyond. The Gallery is open daily from 9am – 5pm and admission is free.

About the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences
The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects. It incorporates the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre at Castle Hill. It is Australia’s foremost museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences.

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MAY

Free admission for all to Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences and Australian Museum – one weekend only.

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(Thursday 9 June, 2016, Sydney): Two of Sydney’s most loved museums will open their doors for free on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 June.

Now in its second year, the Free Museum Weekend invites visitors of all ages to explore Australia’s first museum, the Australian Museum, and the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) at the Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory.

In 2015, the inaugural Free Museum Weekend attracted crowds of more than 50,000 visitors across both museums, marking the introduction of Kids Free, a commitment by the NSW Government to provide free general admission for school students and children 16 years and under visiting both museums.

Since Kids Free began, the Powerhouse Museum has experienced over 60% growth in children’s visits with over 195,000 children visiting the Museum in FY2015-16 to date. The Australian Museum saw more than 150,000 children visit over the same period – a significant increase despite not hosting a blockbuster exhibition during the period

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant, said the Free Museum Weekend would build on the popularity of the Kids Free initiative.

“Arts, science and natural history are integral to every child’s education and museum visits bring this education to life in exciting and tangible ways. The success of Kids Free is testament to the importance of a rich cultural life. With kids flocking to these fascinating museums in the past year we encourage them to bring the adults in their lives along to the Free Museum Weekend to share in their new discoveries,” Mr Grant said.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the Free Museum Weekend provided an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy a special day together and to explore two of Sydney’s most iconic institutions free of charge.

“With the events and programs on offer at all three sites, there will be plenty of opportunities for the whole family to be hands-on throughout the free weekend. As we welcome more children through our venues, we are particularly delighted to see how young people explore the ideas around them, make connections to their own experiences and share their curiosity with others around them.” Ms Merrillees said.

Australian Museum Director Kim McKay AO said experiencing museums from an early age played a pivotal role in developing our understanding of the world.

“Museums are places of learning, wonder and discovery for curious minds to explore. It’s those early museum experiences that are seared into our memories and foster our interest in arts, culture and science,” Ms McKay said.

“There should be no barrier for young people to learn and be inspired, and we are thrilled to be able to open our doors to all visitors on this Free Museum Weekend in June, and celebrate the success of the Kids Free initiative over the past year.”

Visitors to the Australian Museum can experience the award-winning exhibition Trailblazers: Australia’s 50 greatest explorers, a celebration of the pioneers and adventurers who shaped the history of our nation and our understanding of the world around us, while those visiting the Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory will be the first to participate in Tanabata: Star Village, a collaborative community art installation celebrating the Japanese fable of the night sky.
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Free Museum Weekend: 25 – 26 June 2016

AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM
9.30am – 5pm daily, 1 William Street, Sydney, www.australianmuseum.net.au. 9320 6000

MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES
Powerhouse Museum
10am – 5pm daily, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007, www.maas.museum/powerhouse-museum

Sydney Observatory
10am – 5pm daily, Watson Rd, Millers Point, maas.museum/sydney-observatory

Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS)
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

Australian Museum (AM)
Australian Museum (AM), founded in 1827, is the nation’s first museum, and is an internationally recognised natural science and culture institution focused on Australia and the Pacific. As custodian of more than 18 million objects, the AM is uniquely positioned to provide a greater understanding of the region through its scientific research, exhibitions and public and education programs. Through the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), the AM also has a leading role in conserving Australia’s biodiversity through understanding the environmental impacts of climate change, potential biosecurity threats and invasive species.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
AM: Claire Vince, Media Advisor | claire.vince@austmus.gov.au | 9320 6181 / 0468 726 910
MAAS: Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist | eli.wallis@maas.museum | 9217 0564 / 0402 359 016

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TANABATA: STAR VILLAGE AT MAAS FOR THE JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

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Weave, fold, write, listen, play, imagine and create a colourful paper world at Tanabata: Star Village at the Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory during the July School Holidays.

From 2–17 July, families are invited to enjoy this free, immersive art experience created by Slow Art Collective that will build over the course of the holidays through the collective contributions of visitors of all ages. Add to the growing installation and take part in storytelling sessions, origami, wishing cards, musical galaxies and colourful weaving.

MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the programs on offer at the Powerhouse and the Observatory were a great way to spend the holidays.

“Tanabata is a Japanese fable which tells the story of two stars, Orihime the cloud weaver and Hikoboshi the cow-herder, who came to fall in love and live in the night sky. Families this holidays can weave their own story at the Powerhouse Museum, or visit the Sydney Observatory where this fable comes to life as these two stars meet on 7 July,” said Ms Merrillees.

Japanese origami artist Midori Furze will visit the Powerhouse Museum for origami workshops each weekend. Join Furze to learn how to fold impressive origami creations at home. Storytelling sessions at the Powerhouse Museum will introduce children to the Japanese fable of Orihime and Hikoboshi and Sydney Observatory will host daily Indigenous astronomy storytelling sessions.

The ever-popular Thinkspace school holiday program expands in July with four new, full day, digital workshops for budding programmers and gamers taking place across both the Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory.

Focusing on creatively engaging kids, these workshops will teach you to master Minecraft, make your own arcade controller, design your on virtual reality game or make your own professional videos.

For the full Thinkspace program visit www.maas.museum/thinkspace
For the full school holiday program visit maas.museum/school-holidays

Thinkspace

Let’s Play YouTube Video Crash Course, 12-13 July at the Powerhouse Museum
Ages 10–12 $180
Create a Let’s Play video to share with fellow Minecraft and Terraria fans on You Tube. Learn how to produce professional videos with Adobe Premiere and promote them to other Let’s Play gamers.

Virtual Reality Game Design, 14 July at the Powerhouse Museum
Ages 9–12 $100
Design your own VR spaceship simulator using game design elements such as 3D pixel art artwork, music, story development and professional game production engine Unity 5.

Make an Arcade Controller, 4 July at the Powerhouse Museum
(Ages 9–12) $180
Design and build your very own USB arcade-style controller. Adapt joystick components to a specially designed circuit board to create a working controller that will connect with any computer.

Minecraft Minigame Masters, 13 July at the Powerhouse Museum
(Ages 8–12) $100
The ideal introduction to Minecraft for children, in a safe and fun environment. Discover new worlds and share Minecraft adventures playing in teams with fellow online explorers.

For the full Thinkspace program visit www.maas.museum/thinkspace

Tanabata: Star Village
Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory
2 – 17 July 10am – 4.30pm daily
Tanabata: Star Village is an ArtsPeople Production in partnership with the Japan Foundation, Sydney

Enquiries and bookings: maas.museum/school-holidays

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or
E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or
E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museum Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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THE WORLDS GREATEST SCIENCE EXPERIMENT HEADS TO THE POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) ‘transports’ the world’s greatest science experiment, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), to the Powerhouse Museum in an Australian first exhibition from 11 August to 30 October as a part of the 2016 Sydney Science Festival.

An exhibition from the Science Museum, London, Collider provides a behind-the-scenes look at the CERN particle physics laboratory in Geneva that houses the LHC. The LHC is most famous for proving the existence of the Higgs boson, otherwise referred to as the ‘God Particle’. The Higgs boson was theorised in the 1950s to be a subatomic particle responsible for giving other elementary particles mass.

“MAAS has a long history of championing science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) in Australia and is committed to continuing to showcase work at the forefront of these disciplines. The LHC is heralding a new frontier in science with immeasurable possibilities for future discoveries and scientific advancements in technology.” said MAAS Director, Dolla Merrillees.

“This one-of-a-kind exhibition offers visitors an insider’s look at what it’s like to visit the famous site, to take a walk through the CERN control room, talk to virtual scientists and engineers, and snoop around a researcher’s workbench,” said Ms Merrillees.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant said this exhibition would expand the minds of all who experienced it. “The work undertaken at CERN has far-reaching impacts on the world. This immersive exhibition places visitors in the heart of CERN and is the closest most Australians will get to the inside of the LHC. It is an experience that is at once educational and inspirational.”

Blending theatre, video and sound with real artefacts from CERN, the exhibition puts visitors at the heart of an experiment that recreates the conditions that existed just after the Big Bang occurred 13.8 million years ago. Visitors are invited to follow the journey of particle beams as they are injected into the accelerator chain, ramped up to speed and steered around the 27km LHC tunnel. Moving along the tunnel, a wrap-around projection engulfs audiences to simulate one of the LHC’s enormous experimental caverns, as particles smash together around them.

Australian researchers and students are involved in the LHC project through the ARC Centre of Excellence for Particle Physics at the Terascale (CoEPP), a collaborative research venture between the Universities of Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Monash. The exhibition explores Australia’s contribution to experiments that have been and are currently being performed at CERN. Two staff members at the Powerhouse Museum have also worked on the project first hand.

Collider is a highlight of the Sydney Science Festival. The Festival, now in its second year, is produced by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, in collaboration with museums, galleries, universities, businesses, scientists, engineers and community organisations across greater Sydney, to deliver a vibrant 11-day program for National Science Week.

Collider exhibition                                                                           Sydney Science Festival         

6 August – 30 October 2016                                                              11−21 August 2016

Powerhouse Museum                                                                        Powerhouse Museum and venues across Sydney

Adult $20, Concession $13, Child $5, Family $45                              https://sydneyscience.com.au/

On sale 24 June

Includes general admission to the Museum

Free for MAAS Members and children under 4 years

EDITORS NOTES

The Large Hadron Collider: facts and figures

• The Large Hadron Collider is the largest, most sophisticated and most powerful scientific device ever made. It is being used by thousands of scientists and engineers around the world to learn more about the tiny building blocks that make up our Universe and the laws that govern their behaviour.
• The precise circumference of the LHC accelerator is 26,659m (almost the same length as London Underground’s Circle Line), containing thousands of the world’s most powerful magnets.
• Not only is the LHC the world’s largest particle accelerator, just one-eighth of its cryogenic distribution system would qualify as the world’s largest fridge.
• When in operation, trillions of protons race around the LHC accelerator ring 11,245 times a second, travelling at 99.9999991% the speed of light. Altogether some 600 million collisions take place every second.
• When two beams of lead ions collide, they generate temperatures more than 100,000 times hotter than the heart of the Sun
• By contrast, the ‘cryogenic distribution system’, which circulates superfluid helium around the accelerator ring, keeps the LHC at a super cool temperature of -271.3°C (1.9 K) – even colder than outer space!

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences

The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museum Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About the Science Museum, London

As the home of human ingenuity, the Science Museum’s world-class collection forms an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical achievements from across the globe. Welcoming over 3 million visitors a year, the Museum aims to make sense of the science that shapes our lives, inspiring visitors with iconic objects, award-winning exhibitions and incredible stories of scientific achievement.

About CERN

CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is the world’s leading laboratory for particle physics. It has its headquarters in Geneva. At present, its member states are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Romania is a candidate for accession. Serbia is an associate members in the pre-stage to membership. Pakistan and Turkey are associate members. India, Japan, the Russian Federation, the United States of America, the European Commission, the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research and UNESCO have observer status.

About Winton Capital Management, International Tour Sponsor

Winton Capital Management is a leading global alternative investment company and a world leader in financial mathematics and empirical scientific research into financial markets. The company, founded in 1997, now employs some 280 people, including 120 scientists, at research campuses in London, Oxford, Zurich and Hong Kong. Winton Capital also has offices in New York and Sydney.

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:

Matt Fraser, Cardinal Spin
E: matt@cardinalspin.com.au M: 0401 326 007

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RECOLLECT: CERAMICS GRAND CERAMIC STATEMENTS

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A collection of Australia’s most striking ceramic objects will be on display in Recollect: Ceramics curated by Eva Czernis Ryl opening at the Powerhouse Museum on 21 May.

Recollect: Ceramics celebrates milestones from the 1600s to today, showcasing the myriad ways clay has been used in creating both functional and artistic objects. The exhibition spans themes such as art and industry, Indigenous ceramics, glazes and contemporary sculpture, and features rare historic pieces alongside contemporary acquisitions.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees said the exhibition coincides with a renewed widespread interest in ceramics.

“Recollect: Ceramics celebrates the depth and diversity of the Museum’s extensive historical and contemporary ceramics collection drawn from across the world. Generations of artists have combined creative ideas and technical skills to transform raw clay into an infinite variety of ceramic works and juxtaposing ceramics from different cultures allows us to explore their innate influence on each other,” said Ms Merrillees.

Recollect: Ceramics is the latest in the MAAS Recollect series, an exhibition program that draws upon key MAAS curatorial disciplines to display the museum’s vast and rich object collection. Recollect: Ceramics opens 21 May 2016 and runs until 12 February 2017. To date, this exhibition series has seen a 20% increase in the amount of the vast MAAS collection on public display.

Recollect: Ceramics highlights

Satirical bust of Baron Schmiedel, Meissen, Germany
1739, hard-paste porcelain
This satirical portrait bust of the court jester known as Baron Schmiedel, was ordered by Frederick Augustus II (ruled 1733-63), son of Augustus the Strong, King of Poland and Elector of Saxony who established Europe’s first true or hard-paste porcelain factory in 1710. Acquired by the Museum in 1950, the intriguing bust is one of only three examples of this design known to exist, and is among the most important objects in the Museum’s decorative arts collection.

Wanampi Muni Ngintaka, Ernabella Arts, Australia/China
1995, stoneware
This monumental vessel was decorated by Derek Jungarrayi Thompson during the first Indigenous artist residency in China; it was fired in Wu Workshop in Jingdezhen. Indigenous motifs of the large snake and lizard are featured against traditional Chinese clouds.

The Swan Vase, Wedgwood, England
1875, earthenware
This Wedgwood vase was modeled and painted by some of the best ceramic artists available at the time of its production and displayed at three international exhibitions: in Paris in 1878, in Sydney in 1879 and in Melbourne in 1880. The complex design and scale of the vase highlights the importance of Australian markets to leading English manufacturers at the time.

Forms in Succession #5, Japan
2011, slip-cast porcelain
Shigekazu Nagae is one of Japan’s leading porcelain artists, who innovatively adapts the industrial process of slip-casting to create unique works that evoke origami, the traditional Japanese technique of paper folding.

Royal wine coolers, Sèvres, France
1770, soft-paste porcelain
These wine coolers are part of a dinner service ordered by Madame du Barry, mistress of the French king Louis XV, to celebrate the marriage of his grandson and heir to the 16-year old Marie Antoinette of Austria.

Recollect: Ceramics
21 May 2016 –  14 August 2016
The Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
maas.museum/event/recollect-ceramics
Admission: Free with general admission $15 adult, $8 concession, children 16 years and under free

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or
E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or
E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museum Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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ISABELLA BLOW: A FASHIONABLE LIFE EXCLUSIVE TO POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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Showcasing looks from Alexander McQueen, Philip Treacy OBE, Julien Macdonald, Hussein Chalayan and more, an exhibition of the wardrobe of celebrated English fashion editor and stylist Isabella Blow opens in Australia on 14 May exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney.

Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life provides a rare chance to see garments, hats and shoes by iconic British designers such as McQueen and Treacy in addition to the designs of Manolo Blahnik, John Galliano, Jeremy Scott and Viktor & Rolf. The bespoke exhibition features approximately 100 objects from Isabella Blow’s collection and will be on display to 28 August 2016.

Isabella Blow nurtured the careers of many designers, photographers and models from the 1980s until her tragic death in 2007. The muse of milliner Philip Treacy, she is credited with discovering the models Stella Tennant and Sophie Dahl as well as the fashion designer Alexander McQueen. Her editorial work, the images she created and her personal collection of clothes, photographs and illustrations leave behind a legacy of one of fashion’s most talented mavericks.

In 2010, fashion muse, patron and artist, The Honourable Daphne Guinness purchased Isabella’s wardrobe and established the Isabella Blow Foundation. Guinness will visit Australia to open the exhibition and appear at a number of public events at the Powerhouse Museum and Westfield Sydney.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant said the Powerhouse continues to attract world-class exhibitions that will draw visitors from across the state and internationally.

“Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life takes visitors on a journey of twentieth century British fashion through the lens of a fashion editor. Blow’s influence on local Australian and global trends is both immediately evident and fascinating,” Mr Grant said.

“With Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced also on show until the end of August, there is the chance for visitors to get a double dose of fashion at the Powerhouse this winter,” Mr Grant said.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events, Stuart Ayres said this exhibition continued to build Sydney’s reputation as the Australian home of fashion.

“This winter, visitors to Sydney have the opportunity to get a close up look at famous works by seminal British designers. With this exhibition exclusive to Sydney, this is the only place in Australia to see original, early works by designers who are now household names.”

“Against the backdrop of Wool Week, Vivid Sydney and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia, this exhibition provides yet another reason to head to Sydney this May,” Mr Ayres said.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the exhibition continued the work of the MAAS Centre for Fashion.

“Through the MAAS Centre for Fashion we offer unique ways to explore the world of fashion, whether through the collections of fashion icons as with the Centre’s inaugural exhibition Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced, or by hearing first hand from esteemed fashion critics like Suzy Menkes.”

The exhibition will be accompanied by a series of public programs, including a week-long pop up at Westfield Sydney, which will feature intimate talks from Australia’s leading designers, and an event with Daphne Guinness in conversation with Harper’s Bazaar editor Kellie Hush at the Powerhouse Museum on 12 May.

Exhibition details:
What: Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life
When: 14 May – 28 August 2016
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Details: maas.museum/isabella-blow

Admission (includes general entry to Powerhouse Museum)
• Adult $20
• Concession $13
• Children $5
• Groups of 10 or more $20

Book online at maas.museum/event/isabella-blow via Ticketmaster

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About The Centre for Fashion
The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia.

Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

Collette Dinnigan joins the Centre for Fashion as an ambassador, alongside Linda Jackson, Alistair Trung, Akira Isogawa, Kym Ellery, and Luke Sales and Anna Plunkett of Romance Was Born. The Centre also welcomes inaugural patron, Dr Gene Sherman.

Images available for download from DropBox
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/c4kk8r0x61ur98f/AABQczGuwVcxfm3cP7VhA3Dca?dl=0

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Melisa Woodgate, NAC Media Group, melisa@nacmedia-group.com + 61 432 018 331

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APRIL

MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES APPOINTS A NEW SENIOR CURATOR

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Keinton Butler, a London-based curator with over 15 year’s experience, has been appointed as a new Senior Curator with a focus on design and architecture at the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS).

Throughout her career in Australia and the UK, Ms Butler has worked with Tate Modern, British Council and the London Design Festival, and on Damien Hirst’s publishing project, Other Criteria. She joins MAAS most recently from Precinct, a project space she established in London for cultural exchange between artists, designers and local communities.

MAAS Head of Curatorial, Jacqui Strecker, said Keinton brought strong curatorial experience to the role.

“Keinton brings to MAAS expertise honed not only through research, but through the delivery of a broad range of public programs, exhibitions and collaborations. We are very pleased to welcome Keinton to our team.” said Ms Strecker.

Keinton said she was excited to begin work with the MAAS collection.

“Design and architecture are key strengths of the MAAS collection, and I look forward to drawing on the collection to create more opportunities for our visitors with these fascinating areas of practice,” said Ms Butler.

Keinton graduated from Furniture Technology at RMIT University in Melbourne, after studying key developments in furniture production through computer-integrated manufacturing, numerical control and materials technology.

She holds a Master of Arts in Curating Contemporary Design from the Design Museum in London and Kingston University, and her research areas focus on new directions for online curating, mobile technology in museums and curating art and design within historic sites.

Keinton co-founded the award winning British furniture startup, Beynon and collaborating with her extensive professional network, and most recently with Turner Prize-winning architectural collective Assemble.

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museum Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objec

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NEW DIRECTOR ANNOUNCED TO LEAD MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS AND SCIENCES IN PREPARATION FOR PARRAMATTA

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On the riverbank in Parramatta today, the Premier Mike Baird and Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts Troy Grant, made two major announcements for the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), confirming the preferred site for the new museum and the appointment of a new Director.

The Riverbank site, also known as the old David Jones carpark, is the preferred site for the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, Parramatta, positioning the new museum in the heart of Parramatta’s central business district.

Premier Baird said this was an ideal site for an iconic museum.

“Locating the Powerhouse at Parramatta will ensure Western Sydney has a new, world-class cultural institution that will be a major drawcard for local and international visitors,” Mr Baird said.

“The site on the banks of the Parramatta River is the ideal location for the new Powerhouse Museum, which will serve as an anchor for a new arts and cultural precinct.”

The preferred site will now be subject to a detailed business case, which will provide further detail on the project timeline and budget. There is a 5-7 year timeline for completing the build on the new museum.

Leading the planning for the Museum’s next chapter will be Dolla Merrillees, as the new Director of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences.

President of the MAAS Board of Trustees, John Shine, said Ms Merrillees was an outstanding choice for Museum Director.

“Dolla brings a strong track record of curatorial leadership to the role, as well as a highly respected reputation for rethinking and representing collections and delivering innovative exhibitions,” said Mr Shine.

“As an experienced administrator, she has been instrumental in the Museum’s recent successes, which have seen a 14% increase in visitation to the Powerhouse Museum and over 17 new exhibitions presented.

“We look forward to working with Dolla to build an iconic museum in Parramatta.”

Ms Merrillees said she was honoured and delighted to be leading MAAS at a time of such great opportunity.

“The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences is a remarkable Australian institution with an exceptional collection. It sits at the intersection of the arts, design, science and technology and reflects the growth, changing shape and future of Sydney,” said Ms Merrillees.

“Deepening audience engagement, bringing the collections to life through hands on experiences and offering a variety of pathways through ideas and information is key.
We are a contemporary Museum for a smart and creative city and I look forward to working with Parramatta City Council and the community during the design process.”

For media inquiries contact:
Rebekah Waite, Communications Manager, MAAS
0466 331 483, Rebekah.waite@maas.museum

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MARCH

ICONIC BRITISH DESIGNERS EXCLUSIVE TO POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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Showcasing looks from Alexander McQueen, Philip Treacy OBE, Julien Macdonald, Hussein Chalayan and more, the wardrobe of the celebrated English fashion editor and stylist Isabella Blow (1958–2007), will travel to Australia in May for an exhibition exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney.

Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life will provide a rare chance to see garments, hats and shoes by iconic British designers such as McQueen and Treacy in addition to the designs of Manolo Blahnik, John Galliano, Jeremy Scott and Viktor & Rolf. The bespoke exhibition will feature approximately 100 objects from Isabella Blow’s collection. It will open at the Powerhouse Museum during Wool Week on 14 May and be on display to 17 July 2016.

Isabella Blow nurtured the careers of many designers, photographers and models from the 1980s until her tragic death in 2007. The muse of hat designer Philip Treacy, she is credited with discovering the models Stella Tennant and Sophie Dahl as well as the fashion designer Alexander McQueen. Her editorial work, the images she created and her personal collection of clothes, photographs and illustrations leave behind a legacy of one of fashion’s most talented mavericks.

In 2010, fashion muse, patron and artist, The Honourable Daphne Guinness purchased Isabella’s wardrobe and established the Isabella Blow Foundation. Guinness will visit Australia to open the exhibition and appear at a number of public events at the Powerhouse Museum and Westfield Sydney.

Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant said the Powerhouse continues to attract world-class exhibitions that will draw visitors from across the state and internationally.

“Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life will take you on a journey through Isabella’s extraordinary career that influenced worldwide fashion trends for decades,” Mr Grant said.

“With Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced also on show until the end of August, there is the chance for visitors to get a double dose of fashion at the Powerhouse this winter.”

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events, Stuart Ayres said this exhibition continued to build Sydney’s reputation as the Australian home of fashion.

“Visitors to Sydney will discover an incredible fashion collection featuring some of Britain’s most acclaimed designers that can’t be seen anywhere else in Australia or our region,” Mr Ayres said.

“Against the backdrop of Wool Week, Vivid Sydney and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia, this exhibition provides yet another reason to head to Sydney this May.”

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Acting Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the exhibition continued the work of the MAAS Centre for Fashion.

“Through the MAAS Centre for Fashion we offer unique ways to explore the world of fashion, whether through the collections of fashion icons as with the Centre’s inaugural exhibition Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced, or by hearing first hand from esteemed fashion critics like Suzy Menkes.”

The Isabella Blow Foundation Director, Isobel Gorst, said they were looking forward to sharing Blow’s collection with Australians.

“The Isabella Blow Foundation, in partnership with Sydney’s MAAS Centre for Fashion, is delighted to embark upon a new, innovative exhibition. One of the charity’s objectives was to allow the world to view Isabella’s iconic wardrobe and we are thrilled to give Australia this opportunity.”

The exhibition will be accompanied by a series of public programs, including a week-long pop up at Westfield Sydney, which will feature intimate talks from Australia’s leading designers and an in-conversation event with Daphne Guinness on 14 May.

Exhibition details:
What: Isabella Blow: A Fashionable Life
When: 14 May – 17 July 2016
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Details: maas.museum/isabella-blow

Admission (includes general entry to Powerhouse Museum)
• Adult $20
• Concession $13
• Children $5
• Groups of 10 or more $20

Book online at maas.museum/event/isabella-blow

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About The Centre for Fashion
The MAAS Centre for Fashion is Australia’s first public centre for fashion excellence, giving unrivalled access to arguably the largest public fashion collection in Australia.

Working closely with local, national and international designers, and industry and tertiary partners the initiative will foster creative excellence, scholarly inquiry and public curiosity through exhibitions, interactive events, fellowships, designer residences, publications, acquisitions, programs and research.

Collette Dinnigan joins the Centre for Fashion as an ambassador, alongside Linda Jackson, Alistair Trung, Akira Isogawa, Kym Ellery, and Luke Sales and Anna Plunkett of Romance Was Born. The Centre also welcomes inaugural patron, Dr Gene Sherman.

Exhibition highlights include:

Alexander McQueen lace dress and Philip Treacy antler horn, Autumn/ Winter 1996, United Kingdom

Alexander McQueen lace dress, Spring/ Summer 1999, United Kingdom

Alexander McQueen frock coat, Philip Treacy hat, Autumn/ Winter 1996, United Kingdom

Philip Treacy, Disc hat, 2001, United Kingdom

Philip Treacy, Castle hat, 1999, United Kingdom

Philip Treacy, Lace Wing hat, Autumn/ Winter 2001, United Kingdom

Mario Testino photo of Isabella Blow at the Jeremy Scott show wearing the Roswell hat designed by Philip Treacy, 1998, United Kingdom

Vanity Fair, Steven Meisel photo of Isabella Blow wearing the Paradise Headdress designed by Philip Treacy, 1993, United States

Vanity Fair, ‘Burning Down the House’ photo by David LaChapelle, Alexander McQueen and Isabella Blow at Hedingham Castle, Essex, 1996

American Vogue, Richard Burbridge photo of Isabella Blow wearing Queen Mary Toque designed by Philip Treacy, 1996, United States

Lord Snowdon photo of Isabella Blow, 1995, United Kingdom

For media enquiries, contact:
Nikki Andrews
NAC Media Group
nikki@nacmedia-group.com
+ 61 2 9357 3600 + 61 2 9357 3600

Melisa Woodgate
NAC Media Group
melisa@nacmedia-group.com
+ 61 412 647 980 + 61 432 018 331

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LAST CHANCE TO SEE THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS AT THE POWERHOUSE MUSEUM, SYDNEY

New Batman v Superman sculpture revealed
Over 95,000 tickets sold to date
Closing 1 May 2016

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SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – (March 2016) – Australian audiences have been the first in the world to experience THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS exhibition. To further entice audiences to visit before the exhibition closes on 1 May, a new sculpture will be unveiled called ‘Showdown’ and features an epic confrontation between Batman and Superman. This release coincides with the Australian launch of Warner Bros. Pictures film Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. This new, large-scale work is made from over 30,000 LEGO bricks.

This one-of-a-kind exhibition created by renowned contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya has entertained and wowed Australian audiences both young and old. The exhibition, exclusive to the Powerhouse Museum in Australia, will close on 1 May and continue on its worldwide tour.

THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS features more than 120 original works of art, created using over 1 million LEGO bricks, including a life-size Batmobile, spanning 5.5 metres (18 feet) and constructed from 500,000 bricks. Inspired by legendary characters such as Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Joker, Harley Quinn and others, Sawaya has imagined large-scale sculptures featuring some of the most iconic Super Heroes and Super-Villains from the pages of DC Comics.

Artist Nathan Sawaya said, “This new piece of artwork captures the question comic fans have been asking for decades, if Batman and Superman were to battle, who would win? It is an epic showdown of super-heroic proportions. It’s big. It’s dark. It’s fierce. Like with so many of my sculptures, I leave it to the viewer to finish the story.”

NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant, said “This Australian exclusive for the Powerhouse Museum has been incredibly popular with families and fans of LEGO and DC Comics. It’s a must-see and I encourage you all to visit before the exhibition leaves Australia.”
NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said “It was a real coup for Sydney to secure the world premiere of THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS exhibition through support from the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. The exhibition is a major drawcard for visitors to Sydney and I encourage everyone to see this world class exhibition before it closes.”

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Dolla Merrillees said it was an honour for the Powerhouse Museum to be the exclusive Australian venue for this global exhibition. “This exhibition has been immensely popular since it opened and continues to attract strong crowds. Its popularity supports our fascination with heroes and villains and the battle between right and wrong as well as our affiliation and love of LEGO,” said Ms Merrillees.

The exhibition holds true to the creative disciplines of Sawaya’s original touring exhibition, THE ART OF THE BRICK, which encourages inspiration, education and participation and has been seen by millions of people in more than 75 cities across five continents. Award-winning and record-breaking, CNN rated it as one of the world’s ‘must see exhibitions.’

The exhibition, supported in Australia by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, brings together contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya with Warner Bros. Consumer Products and DC Entertainment, to create the world’s largest collection of DC Comics-inspired LEGO® artwork.

Exhibition details
What:     THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS
Where:   Powerhouse Museum, Sydney
500 Harris St, Ultimo NSW
When:    Closing 1 May 2016
Details:   maas.museum/aotb
Tickets:   To avoid the queues pre-book your tickets at www.ticketek.com.au
Pricing:   Adult: $26
Concession: $22
Child: $16.60
Family: $64

Future cities and venues will be posted at www.brickartist.com

About Nathan Sawaya
Nathan Sawaya is an acclaimed artist who creates awe-inspiring artwork out of a toy. His art focuses on large-scale sculptures using only LEGO bricks. Sawaya was the first artist to ever take LEGO into the art world and his touring exhibition THE ART OF THE BRICK, has entertained and inspired millions of art lovers and enthusiasts around the world. CNN heralded THE ART OF THE BRICK as one of the top “must-see exhibits in the world!” Originally a lawyer, Sawaya walked away from the law and took an artistic risk on LEGO bricks. Now Sawaya is an author, speaker and one of the most popular, award-winning contemporary artists of our time. For more information about Nathan Sawaya and his artwork, visit www.nathansawaya.com. For more information about THE ART OF THE BRICK, visit www.brickartist.com.

About the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museums Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About Warner Bros. Consumer Products
Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.

About DC Entertainment
DC Entertainment, home to iconic brands DC Comics (Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, The Flash), Vertigo (Sandman, Fables) and MAD, is the creative division charged with strategically integrating its content across Warner Bros. Entertainment and Time Warner. DC Entertainment works in concert with many key Warner Bros. divisions to unleash its stories and characters across all media, including but not limited to film, television, consumer products, home entertainment and interactive games. Publishing thousands of comic books, graphic novels and magazines each year, DC Entertainment is one of the largest English-language publishers of comics in the world.

Media contacts:

Kathryn Elliott
LAHRA CAREY MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS
Kathryn@lahracarey.com.au
O: +61 3 9685 3191
M: 0418 577 583 or Lahra Carey: 0414 632 982

Katie Kotchka
WARNER BROS. CONSUMER PRODUCTS
Katie.Kotchka@warnerbros.com
O: +818-954-7119
M: +646-703-1233

Images:

Link to images of sculptures being showcased at the upcoming exhibition below

THE ART OF THE BRICK DC COMICS IMAGES

BATMAN, SUPERMAN, JUSTICE LEAGUE and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics.
(s16)

LEGO, its logo, the brick and knob configuration and the Minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2015 The LEGO Group. Used with permission.

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SYDNEY DESIGN FESTIVAL 2016 MAKE OR BREAK

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Sydney Design Festival will celebrate the best of design at venues across Sydney from 2 – 11 September 2016. Presented by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), the Festival this year celebrates its 20th anniversary. The Festival theme, Make or Break, will examine the role of commercial success for designers and the trend for deconstructed production methods.

MAAS Acting Director, Dolla Merrillees, said the festival was unique in its origins and offerings.

“Sydney Design Festival is unusual as one of the only Museum-presented design festivals in the world. Throughout its 20-year history the Festival has championed local and new designers and provided forums to explore the impacts of design on everyday life and culture.”

“Design is a cornerstone of MAAS, The Museum commands a unique place at the intersection of science and technology, design and innovation, aesthetics and industry We look forward to once again gathering a range of leading creatives under the umbrella of innovative design,” said Ms Merrillees.

Design Institute of Australia NSW President, Karinna Gobbo, said the festival has a lot to offer designers across numerous fields.

“The Design Institute of Australia members are experts in design thinking, creative problem solving and innovation. Collectively, our professional members represent a broad gamut of disciplines in both established and emerging design fields of design. Aligning and supporting Sydney Design Week 2016 across multiple design disciplines is of considerable value to our members and the design community,” said Ms Gobbo.

Australian Graphic Design Association (AGDA) Strategy Director, Catriona Burgess, said the festival had a key role to play in bringing the design community together.

“There has never been a more exciting time for design, especially for Australia. Creativity can solve old problems in new ways, and is being increasingly understood as critical to successful businesses and communities. Sydney Design Festival allows us to highlight the value of design and to celebrate the vibrancy of our industry,” said Ms Burgess.

Expressions of interest are now open for program contributions across formats as varied as lectures, studio tours, exhibitions, events and networking opportunities. Design streams range from architecture, landscape, industrial and interiors to fashion, jewellery and graphic design.

Highlights of last year’s festival included a four-day showcase of research-led architecture innovation; talks by leading Australian designers; jewellery workshops adapting basketry techniques to silver smithing and a collaborative community crochet project throughout the festival.

Past festival speakers have included Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, Droog co-founder Renny Ramakers, industrial designer Ross Lovegrove, French designer Matali Crasset and fashion historian Valerie Steele.

Expressions of interest close on 4 April. A full festival program will be announced on 22 July 2016.

Sydney Design Festival
2 – 11 September 2016
Expressions of Interest close 4 April 2016
www.sydneydesign.com.au

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museum Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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UNLEASH YOUR IMAGINATION WITH THE MAAS APRIL SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

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Create your own video game, sleep over at the Powerhouse Museum and build rockets at Sydney Observatory these school holidays. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) is the home of creative children from 9 to 24 April. In addition to popular workshops in LEGO® stop motion animation, Minecraft, computer game design and music video creation, four new workshops have been added to the Museum’s THINKSPACE program.

THINKSPACE programs are designed to get kids excited about STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and maths) using fun and engaging formats. MAAS Digital Learning Manager James Oliver believes the workshops empower children to find their voice through technology. “THINKSPACE workshops allow learners to create and produce videos using inspiration from around the museum and professional filming and editing techniques,” said Mr Oliver.

Back by popular demand, the Powerhouse Museum Sleepover will bring the museum to life after dark for kids big and small on 15 April. Dress up as your favourite Super Hero for THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS and take a torchlight tour to explore the Museum in a whole new light. Join fellow Museum enthusiasts for dinner in the Museum and a screening of the LEGO® movie before sleeping amongst historical objects, under suspended planes.

Star gaze in the daylight with impressive telescopes at Observatory Kids Extravaganza: Space Exploration at Sydney Observatory on 20 April. Launch rockets, build your own rocket to take home and learn about Mars exploration from the Mars Lab team.

The school holidays are also the perfect time to see THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS before it closes on 1 May. A new sculpture will be added to the exhibition to coincide with the film release of Batman v Superman on 24 March. See this and over 120 artworks inspired by the most enduring Super Heroes and Super-Villains: from Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman, to The Joker and Harley Quinn.

THINKSPACE

YouTube Creator Crash Course, 21 April at the Powerhouse Museum
Ages 10 – 12 $180
Learn how to create original YouTube content and promote your videos using creative thumbnails and channel art.

Next Big Music Hit, 19 April at the Powerhouse Museum
Ages 9 – 12 $100
This is a great chance to meet like-minded people who can collaborate on your project. If you are passionate about song writing come and join us to write the next big hit!

Unity Multiplayer Game with C#13-15, 21 April at the Powerhouse Museum
Ages 13 – 15 $180
Create your own multiplayer game using Unity 5 then play it on your device at home.

Physical Computing and Rockets, 11 and 22 April at Sydney Observatory
Ages 9 – 12 $100
Learn how to manoeuvre electronic components with code. Control lights, make music and use sensors to read the environment in this exciting workshop that encourages children to explore the maker space.

THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS at the Powerhouse Museum
$26 Adult, $16.60 Child, $64 Family

Free activities at the Powerhouse Museum
Giant Comic Strip, 9-25 April, 9.30am-4.30pm
Draw your favourite super heroes to life as you contribute to the Museum’s giant comic strip.
Green Screen Super Hero Photos, 9-25 April, 9.30am-4.30pm
Dress up as your favourite Super Hero, take a photo, and send a copy home to astound your friends!

Powerhouse Museum Sleepover
15 April 5.30pm – 16 April 8.00am
$160 Adult, $140 Child, additional children (within same booking) $70
MAAS Members $125 Adult, $100 Child, additional children (within same booking) $50
Ages 5-10 (with children to be accompanied by an adult)

Observatory Kids Extravaganza: Space Exploration
20 April, 10.00am-1.30pm
$15 child 3 years and over / $13 Members child, free entry for parents and carers (max 2 per child)
Ages 3-8

Enquiries and bookings: www.ticketek.com.au Info: www.maas.museum

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or
E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or
E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museum Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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FEBRUARY

COLLIDER EXCLUSIVE TO SYDNEY SCIENCE FESTIVAL

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The 2016 Sydney Science Festival will take visitors deep into CERN’s Large Hadron Collider. Experience the world’s largest science experiment, as part of a compelling program of exhibitions, talks and workshops right across the city.

Now in its second year, the Sydney Science Festival is led by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, in collaboration with museums, galleries, universities, businesses, scientists, engineers and community organisations across greater Sydney, to deliver a vibrant 11-day program for National Science Week.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Acting Director, Dolla Merrillees, said festival audiences had a lot to look forward to.

“In 2015 the inaugural Sydney Science Festival attracted over 39,000 participants across 132 events, and we are looking forward to working with even more partners this year for an even bigger program,” said Ms Merrillees.

Organisations interested in being a part of the 2016 festival program are invited to submit an expression of interest by the 7 March.

A highlight of this year’s Sydney Science Festival program will be Collider, an exhibition direct from the London Science Museum, which takes visitors on an immersive journey through the Large Hadron Collider in CERN’s Geneva laboratories.

“This immersive exhibition is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the world’s ground-breaking scientific facilities,” said Ms Merrillees.

“With its recreated tunnels and work spaces this is the place where the very hot meets the intensely cold, where the big sits alongside the extremely small and where art and science intersect. It is the perfect representation of the Museum’s ongoing commitment to showcasing human innovation and the intersection of art, science and technology,

Blending theatre, video and sound with real artefacts from CERN, this exhibition puts visitors at the heart of an experiment that recreates the conditions that existed just after the Bing Bang occurred 13.8 million years ago,” said Ms Merrillees.

Australian researchers and students are involved in the LHC project through the ARC Centre of Excellence for Particle Physics at the Terascale (CoEPP), a collaborative research venture between the Universities of Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Monash.

Sydney Mini Maker Faire will also return to the Powerhouse Museum as a highlight of the Sydney Science Festival. Now in its fourth year, the two-day faire provides an opportunity for Sydney’s best Makers, from a wide range of disciplines, to showcase their creations to the public. From wine makers to Arduino coders and 3D printing designers, share in the wonder of invention with passionate Makers from across NSW.

Sydney Science Festival
11−21 August 2016
Powerhouse Museum
Expressions of Interest close 7 March 2016
www.sydneyscience.com.au/eoi/

Collider exhibition
11 August – 30 October 2016
Powerhouse Museum
Tickets free with general admission
Adult $15, Concessions $8
Children 16 years and under FREE

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and Museum Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

About the London Science Museum
As the home of human ingenuity, the Science Museum’s world-class collection forms an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical achievements from across the globe. Welcoming over 3 million visitors a year, the Museum aims to make sense of the science that shapes our lives, inspiring visitors with iconic objects, award-winning exhibitions and incredible stories of scientific achievement.

Notes to Editors:

Collider
The Collider exhibition transports visitors into the heart of one of the greatest scientific experiments of our time: the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Collider provides a behind-the-scenes look at the CERN particle physics laboratory in Geneva in the first exhibition of its kind, offering visitors the closest experience possible to visiting the famous site itself.

The immersive exhibition blends theatre, video and sound art, to take visitors to the site of the LHC where they can explore areas including CERN’s Control Room and a huge underground detector cavern. Visitors can meet ‘virtual’ scientists and engineers from CERN, snoop around a researcher’s workbench, and examine objects up-close.

Visitors will follow the journey of particle beams as they are injected into the accelerator chain, ramped up to speed and steered around the 27km LHC tunnel. Moving along the tunnel, visitors are then immersed in the highlight of the exhibition – a wrap-around projection taking in both extremes of the scale of the LHC: from an enormous experiment cavern, to the very heart of a particle collision.

The Large Hadron Collider: facts and figures
• The Large Hadron Collider is the largest, most sophisticated and most powerful scientific device ever made. It is being used by thousands of scientists and engineers around the world to learn more about the tiny building blocks that make up our Universe and the laws that govern their behaviour.
• The precise circumference of the LHC accelerator is 42,903 km, containing thousands of the world’s most powerful magnets.
• Not only is the LHC the world’s largest particle accelerator, just one-eighth of its cryogenic distribution system would qualify as the world’s largest fridge.
• When in operation, trillions of protons race around the LHC accelerator ring 11,245 times a second, travelling at 99.9999991% the speed of light. Altogether some 600 million collisions take place every second.
• When two beams of lead ions collide, they generate temperatures more than 100,000 times hotter than the heart of the Sun
• By contrast, the ‘cryogenic distribution system’, which circulates superfluid helium around the accelerator ring, keeps the LHC at a super cool temperature of -271.3°C (1.9 K) – even colder than outer space!

About CERN
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is the world’s leading laboratory for particle physics. It has its headquarters in Geneva. At present, its member states are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Romania is a candidate for accession. Serbia is an associate member in the pre-stage to membership. Pakistan and Turkey are associate members. India, Japan, the Russian Federation, the United States of America, the European Commission, the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research and UNESCO have observer status.

About Winton Capital Management
Winton Capital Management is a leading global alternative investment company and a world leader in financial mathematics and empirical scientific research into financial markets. The company, founded in 1997, now employs some 280 people, including 120 scientists, at research campuses in London, Oxford, Zurich and Hong Kong. Winton Capital also has office in New York and Sydney.

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

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MAASive LATES FREE ADULTS ONLY NIGHTS AT POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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The 2016 MAASive Lates program has been announced with four, free after-hours events for adults curated by the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences and co-produced with partner organisations, artists and festivals.

On Thursday 24 March the first MAASive Lates for 2016 will celebrate super heroes with The Art of the Brick: DC Comics open after hours and a new artwork by international LEGO® artist Nathan Sawaya unveiled to coincide with the release of highly anticipated blockbuster movie Batman v Superman. Local acrobatic super heroes Legs on the Wall will perform a new work devised specially for MAASive Lates: Super Heroes. Create your own super hero moments against a birds-eye perspective photo wall. For one night only, The Art of the Brick: DC Comics exhibition will be open until late and discounted to $18 (usually $26) for MAASive Lates audiences

MAASive Lates is a series of one-off events curated by the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences, opening the Powerhouse Museum at night for adults-only parties, performances and interactive experiences. Each MAASive Lates event expands upon themes that underpin current exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum and embody the MAAS commitment to being a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds.

MAASive LATES 2016

MAASive Lates: Super Heroes, Thursday 24 March
Don a cape and let your inner super hero fly to the Powerhouse Museum for a night of super powers and LEGO for adults.

MAASive Lates: Fashion, Thursday 19 May
Celebrate Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week with a night of fashion-inspired programs at the MAAS Centre for Fashion.

MAASive Lates: Science, Thursday 11 August
Spark your curiosity with an evening of cutting-edge science during the Sydney Science Festival and experience the world’s greatest science experiment, the Large Hadron Collider.

MAASive Lates: Design, Thursday 27 October
Explore design principals, history and future trends as part of an exciting new design exhibition soon to be announced.

Tickets to MAASive Lates events are free but limited
To register for tickets visit www.maas.museum
Entry to The Art of the Brick: DC Comics is discounted for one night only on 24 March
Adult $18 / Concession $15
The Junction Café and licenced bar will be open

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or
E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or
E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com

About the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
The Powerhouse Museum, alongside Sydney Observatory and the Museum Discovery Centre, is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a vast and diverse collection of over 500,000 objects.

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JANUARY  

NEW TALENT JOINS MAAS IN 2016

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The Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences (MAAS) has welcomed new team members in 2016 with the appointment of Andrew Elliott as Director, Corporate Resources and CFO, Marnie Ogg as Sydney Observatory Manager and Julie Banks as Registration Manager.

Andrew Elliott joins MAAS from the private sector. An experienced Director and Chief Financial Officer he has delivered large scale planning and infrastructure projects, working closely with governments throughout Indo-China and the Asia Pacific region. Andrew took up the Director role on 18 January.

Marnie Ogg brings over 20 years tourism industry experience to the role of Sydney Observatory Manager. Prior to her appointment at MAAS she was the Director of Fred Watson Tours & Events, a tourism company specialising in science and astronomy. Marnie took over management of the Sydney Observatory in November 2015.

Julie Banks has extensive experience in museum registration. In a career spanning over 15 years she has worked in collections management at Museum Victoria, National Portrait Gallery, Australian Racing Museum, National Gallery of Victoria and Art Gallery of New South Wales. Julie commences as Registration Manager at MAAS from May 2016.

A number of existing staff have also moved into acting roles on the executive in 2016, joining Leann Meiers as Director, Development and External Affairs, and Michael Parry as Director of Programs and Engagement.

Dolla Merrillees began as MAAS Acting Director this month and says this is an exciting chapter for the Museum “We have started the year with strong visitation, particularly to Art of the Brick at the Powerhouse Museum. The holiday period is on track to be one of our most successful in recent years. Planning continues for the Museum’s longer term future in Parramatta. This represents a once in a generation opportunity to develop a twenty first century museum that responds to growth and the changing shape of Sydney.” said Ms Merrillees.

Rebecca Bushby has taken up the position of Director Curatorial, Collections and Exhibitions. Previously MAAS Head of Production, Rebecca brings to the role considerable experience in project and exhibitions management, alongside extensive skills in interpretation of collections. Rebecca’s role will a role that will oversee the opening of new exhibitions in 2016 including two major international exhibitions and the reopening of the Museum’s collection storage facility at Castle Hill.

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Eli Wallis, Senior Publicist T: 0402 359 016 or E: eli.wallis@maas.museum

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DECEMBER

THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS and SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM POWERHOUSE MUSEUM

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The world premiere of THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS will open at Powerhouse Museum on 21 November 2015. The world’s largest collection of DC Comics-inspired LEGO® artwork includes the most enduring Super Heroes and Super-Villains: from Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman, to The Joker and Harley Quinn. A brand-new, life-size, Batmobile, built entirely out of LEGO® bricks, will be unveiled in Sydney alongside more than 100 other works of art by Sawaya.

Powerhouse Museum has an action packed line-up of summer SCHOOL HOLIDAY activities for all ages including:

Collaborative Comic Strip: Make your favourite Super Heroes come to life as you contribute to the Museum’s giant comic strip.

19 December – 26 January, 9.30am-5pm, Ages 4+

Birds-eye Super Hero Photos: Don a cape and choose some props to have your photo taken from a bird’s eye perspective.

19 December – 26 January, 9.30am-5pm

Sleep over at the Powerhouse Museum: Experience the Museum in a whole new way as you sleep over for the night in the Transport gallery, visit The Art of the Brick exhibition and enjoy dinner and breakfast inside the museum.

15-16 Jan, 5.30pm-8.00am, Ages 5-10

MAASive Hip-Hop Bootcamp: A five-day workshop program for 13-16 year olds built around hip-hop culture and youth activism.

11–15 January 10.00am – 3.00pm, Ages 12-16

Stop Motion Extravaganza: Get busy with clay! In this two-part workshop create clay characters to star in your very own LEGO® stop animation short film.

January 2016, 10am-4pm

LEGO® Stop Motion Family Day: Bring Lego to life! Animate characters and blocks using stop animation. Create a short LEGO® stop motion film, add sound and upload it to YouTube!

January 2016, 10am-4pm

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or
E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or
E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com

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NOVEMBER

ACTIVISTS AND ARTISTS UNITE FOR A NIGHT OF CREATIVITY AND COLLECTIVE ACTION

MAASive LATES: CIVIL DISCOBEDIENCE

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Paul Capsis and Mark Trevorrow join a host of provocative performers for a night of Civil Discobedience as part of MAASive Lates at Powerhouse Museum on Thursday 26 November.

Actor and arts commentator Nell Schofield will host an entertaining evening of art and ideas as the Powerhouse Museum opens its doors after dark. Award-winning cabaret chameleon Paul Capsis will delight with his mesmerising voice. Mark Trevorrow, best known to Australian audiences as his alter ego Bob Downe, has charmed audiences across the world with his quick wit and particularly Australian twist on self-deprecating humour.

MAAS Director, Rose Hiscock, said this is a unique opportunity for people to experience the Powerhouse Museum at night. “MAASive Lates opens the Museum up as a meeting place for the community to explore and discuss ideas, all in an entertaining forum. Civil Discobedience promises to be particularly raucous with some of Sydney’s best contemporary artists bringing their particular brand of humour to the theme of disobedience,” said Ms Hiscock.

Taking its cue from the exhibition Disobedient Objects, Civil Discobedience invites visitors to tour this newly opened Victoria and Albert Museum exhibition as well as Evidence: Brook Andrew. Disobedient Objects showcases objects that represent collective action for change, spanning 30 years of political activism across the world. In Evidence: Brook Andrew Australian artist Brook Andrew draws from the extensive MAAS collection to create installations that examine ideas of people and place through the theme of evidence.

Get out your hard hat and steel cap boots and hit the dance floor for a night of grinding disco, creativity and collective action. DJ Simon Caldwell will rock your underworld with tunes from the frontline while activists and artists weld their direct-action tool belts together under a shimmering mirror ball. Experience performances by the amazing Martenitsa Choir – the voice of Bulgarian women in the fields – artist Michael Cutrupi from Fat Boy Dancing, poet Samuel Wagan Watson and some surprise flash flamenco.

Become part of the solution by weaving a star for the One Million Stars to End Violence project; plant Seeds of Hope for a healthy future and witness the beginning of a new social movement – 100 Moving Men against domestic violence. If you feel like a yarn about conservation, the Knitting Nannas Against Gas have you covered.

There’s something for everyone at Civil Discobedience. But be warned, sparks will fly!

MAASive Lates is a series of one-off events curated by the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences, opening the Powerhouse Museum at night for adults-only parties, performances and debate. Each MAASive Lates event expands upon themes that underpin current exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum and embody the MAAS commitment to being a catalyst for creative expression and curious minds.

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or
E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or
E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com

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NEW INTERNATIONAL ROLE FOR MAAS DIRECTOR ROSE HISCOCK
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The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences today announced that its Director, Rose Hiscock will step down at the end of this year to take up a new international science leadership role in 2016.

The President of the Museum’s Board of Trustees, Professor John Shine AO today thanked Ms Hiscock for her significant contribution as Director of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), which includes the Powerhouse Museum and Sydney Observatory.

Ms Hiscock has been appointed as the inaugural Director of Science Gallery Melbourne.

Professor Shine said Ms Hiscock has transformed MAAS during her time as Director and will be missed by the Museum’s staff and volunteers.

“Rose Hiscock has done an outstanding job steering the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences through a period of significant change,” said Professor Shine.

“She has achieved major reforms that have helped turn the Museum into a dynamic and contemporary venue, resulting in greater visitor numbers and sponsorship over the last two years.”

“Rose has energised the Museum, which has delivered 18 great new exhibitions, launched a new Centre for Fashion and witnessed a five-fold increase in objects put on display during her time.”

The Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant also congratulated Ms Hiscock today on her accomplishments at MAAS.

“Rose has done an outstanding job creating a new vision and growth platform for the Museum as Director,” said Mr Grant.

“As well as bringing great international exhibitions to NSW she has ensured more of the State’s extraordinary collection is on display.”

“She has laid strong foundations to support the Government’s vision for a new Powerhouse Museum in Parramatta, which will become a remarkable cultural institution for Sydney’s west.”

“As we move towards a final decision on the location for the Powerhouse, Rose’s departure will provide her successor with a great opportunity to shape and build an iconic museum for the future.”

“I wish Rose the best of luck in her new role.”

Ms Hiscock today thanked the NSW Government, MAAS President and Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers, MAAS partners and stakeholders for their strong support during her time as Director.

“The last two and a half years have been immensely rewarding for me and I’m very proud of MAAS’ achievements,” said Ms Hiscock.

“It will be sad to go, however I will leave at the end of the year knowing the Museum is in great shape to embrace an exciting phase in its future.”

“I pay particular tribute to the highly skilled and creative MAAS staff and volunteers who have made the Museum what it is today.”

“I would also like to thank the Museum’s partners, members, local communities and visitors who have supported us so strongly along the way.”

Dolla Merrillees, MAAS’ Director Curatorial, Collections and Exhibitions, will act as Director following Ms Hiscock’s departure, until the appointment of a permanent replacement. The NSW Government will commence the search process immediately.

Media inquiries

Rebekah Waite, Communications Manager, MAAS
rebekah.waite@maas.museum 0466 331 483

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SEPTEMBER

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM TO HOST EXCLUSIVE EXHIBITION COLLETTE DINNIGAN: UNLACED

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This spring, the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences presents an exhibition exploring the work of internationally renowned Australian fashion designer, Collette Dinnigan, opening exclusively at Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum in September, 2015.

Curated in collaboration with Dinnigan herself, the exhibition covers the designer’s 25 year career, featuring over 100 garments including her signature lingerie, bridalwear, ready-to-wear and resort collections, alongside striking signature lace and embellished designs and never-before-seen objects and accessories from her personal archive.

Presented in a series of strikingly themed sets, the scenes bring into focus Dinnigan’s unique creative perspective and craftsmanship, and highlight the romantic, feminine designs that have seen her work sought after by a star-studded clientele including Taylor Swift, Dita Von Teese and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

Also featured is the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences’ own significant collection of Dinnigan garments, the largest such collection in the world.

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) Director, Rose Hiscock said the exhibition was a significant part of a new initiative for the Museum.

“Collette Dinnigan: Unlaced is the first exhibition to be developed by the MAAS team as part of the newly created MAAS Centre for Fashion,” said Ms. Hiscock.

“The Centre for Fashion puts creativity and design under the spotlight. It is fitting that the first exhibition under the Centre for Fashion features one of Australia’s most celebrated fashion designers.

“Collette Dinnigan is a creative tour de force and an inspiration for future generations.”

Collette Dinnigan said “Being involved in this exciting project has enabled the dynamic world of fashion and the disciplined curation of museums to fuse together. I am honoured to showcase my collections, collaborating with the best designers and museum curators, bringing audiences “behind the scenes” into the world of Collette Dinnigan.  It also highlights the Powerhouse Museum and Sydney as a key destination for great fashion exhibitions, both local and international.”

NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events, Stuart Ayres said the exhibition was world-class and further evidence that Sydney is Australia’s home of fashion.

“From opening her first boutique in Sydney’s Paddington fashion precinct, Collette Dinnigan has gone on to worldwide acclaim and it’s fitting that a retrospective of her stellar career be held here in Sydney where it all began,” Mr Ayres said.

“The NSW Government is proud to have secured this exhibition through our tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW and we look forward to welcoming visitors to Sydney for a rare glimpse behind the scenes of one of Australia’s most influential fashion visionaries.”

As well as a wide array of garments, ranging from lingerie and wedding dresses through to children’s clothing, the exhibition will also immerse visitors in a dramatic catwalk presentation and provide insight into Dinnigan’s creative process through a series of striking mood boards.

MAAS and Dinnigan have collaborated with award-winning stage and costume designer and installation artist Anna Tregloan for production design and styling of the exhibition.

The thematic presentation explores Dinnigan’s romantic sensibility and her inspirations, which include film, music, photography, history, vintage ceramics, jewellery and fabrics as well as her choice of materials including tulle, chiffon and lace, combining in dresses and gowns that are made to accentuate the female form, providing a sense of confidence, sensuality and individuality.

Various celebrity outfits will also be dispersed throughout the exhibition, including stunning outfits worn by high profile women such as Nicole Kidman, Taylor Swift, Angelina Jolie and Naomi Watts.

The exhibition will be open to the public until August, 2016, and will accompanied by a range of talks, tours and programs.

Media inquiries

Rebekah Waite, Communications Manager, MAAS
rebekah.waite@maas.museum 0466 331 483

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JULY

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM, SYDNEY ANNOUNCED AS EXCLUSIVE AUSTRALIAN VENUE FOR THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC COMICS

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Internationally renowned LEGO artist, Nathan Sawaya, has joined forces with DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Consumer Products to create the world’s largest exhibition of DC Comics-inspired artwork, coming first to Powerhouse Museum in Sydney.

This never-before-seen international touring exhibition opens in November 2015, and takes on characters and stories from DC Comics’ 80-year history with large-scale sculptures of super heroes and super-villains made from millions of LEGO® bricks.

Sawaya and cult comic book artist and Co-publisher of DC Entertainment, Jim Lee will collaborate on a new Batmobile design to debut alongside more than 100 works of art.

The exhibition will also showcase Sawaya’s interpretations on characters, vehicles, environments and themes found throughout the DC Comics mythology including transformation and reinvention, strength and weakness, as well as good vs. evil.

“This show is an Australian exclusive for Powerhouse Museum and will be a fantastic experience for families and fans of Lego and the DC Comic characters,” said Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant.

“We all know that everything is awesome in a show about Lego.”

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events, Stuart Ayres, said the exhibition would be a must-see on the Sydney Summer Events calendar.

“The Art of The Brick is the most successful LEGO brick exhibition series of all time, and Nathan Sawaya is known world-wide for his awe-inspiring LEGO brick creations. This exhibition will appeal to visitors of all ages with its recreations of heroes and villains including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and The Joker,” said Minister Ayres.

“The exhibition, secured by the NSW Government through our tourism and major events agency Destination NSW in partnership with the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), will attract thousands of visitors to Sydney, and is expected to generate close to $6 million in visitor expenditure for the State.”

Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Director, Rose Hiscock, said the exhibition was not to be missed.

“Stories of super heroes and super villains are ever-present in our cultural narrative; they are the stories we re-enact as kids and remember as adults.

“The Art of the Brick: DC Comics continues the Powerhouse Museum’s strong tradition of exploring contemporary culture through art and design and we can’t wait for the doors to open,” said Ms Hiscock.

The exhibition will stay true to the creative disciplines of Sawaya’s original touring exhibition, which encourage inspiration, education and participation.

The international tour of The Art of the Brick: DC Comics will begin in November in Sydney, followed by venues in additional major cities around the globe.  Tickets will go on sale in August and pre-sale registration is available now online.

Media contact:

Rebekah Waite, Communication Manager
0466 331 483 rebekah.waite@maas.museum

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JUNE

‘FREE FOR ALL’ WEEKEND TO CELEBRATE ‘FREE KIDS’ INITIATIVE AT POWERHOUSE MUSEUM AND THE AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM
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Powerhouse Museum will open its doors ‘free for all’ on the weekend of Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June to celebrate the NSW Government’s commitment to ongoing free general admission for children under 16 and high school aged students.

On this special weekend, admission will be free for adults and children alike, with children of all ages unleashing their creativity with contemporary theatre company Polyglot, transforming the Powerhouse Museum with Paper Planet, a world made of paper.

“Kids Free is an exciting initiative of the NSW Government to create more opportunities for children and families to experience arts and culture,” Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, the Hon. Troy Grant said.

“With school holidays starting that weekend, visiting a museum is a great way to get the kids out of the house and into the arts’’ he said.

MAAS Director, Rose Hiscock said both museums provide inspiration for enquiring young minds.

“Encouraging curiosity is our business, which is why we are so excited to be offering free admission for kids,” said Ms Hiscock.

“With a wealth of programming unfolding over the next twelve months there will be every opportunity for kids to build, make, explore and learn more about the way our world works at Powerhouse Museum.”

During the free weekend the curators of the Powerhouse Museum will also reveal the secrets behind treasures in the Museum’s collection. Visitors can marvel at a ‘mystery object’ and guess what it might be as Museum experts showcase an object not usually on display. The iconic Boulton and Watt steam engine will also in action, and visitors can drive a robotic rover in the Mars Yard and go wild in our zero gravity chamber.

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:

Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com

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JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

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Theatre and play will merge when children of all ages unleash their creativity with contemporary theatre company Polyglot transforming the Powerhouse Museum into Paper Planet, to create a world made of paper.  You will have the chance to build whole communities of tall cardboard trees in this ongoing installation creating structures, costumes and impossible constructions.

To launch the holiday program on the weekend of Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June, Powerhouse Museum curators will reveal the secrets behind treasures in the Museum’s collection.  You can marvel at our ‘mystery object’ and guess what it might be as Museum experts showcase an object not usually on display. Why not bring along an object that is of value to you and share your stories in our ‘Mini Expert Show and Tell’. Watch the Boulton and Watt steam engine in action, drive a robotic rover in the Mars Yard and go wild in our zero gravity chamber.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

• PAPER PLANET Polyglot Theatre transform the Museum into a Paper Planet; a spectacular world of tall cardboard trees inviting kids and adults to fill the world with fantastic paper creations.
• CITYSCAPES Calling all budding architects and engineers! Step into the construction site and collaborate to build massive structures using only interlocking cardboard pieces.
• PERFORMATIVE STORYTELLING Spark your curiosity through per formative storytelling that explores the creativity needed to create our world and everything in it. 
• RECOLLECT: TOY TRAINS Explore the wonderful miniature world of toy trains with this fascinating display showcasing more than 200 objects from the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences’ extensive collection.
• DIGITAL MEDIA WORKSHOPS From Minecraft to Python, coding to claymation 
  

FOR FURTHER MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 or
E: amanda@abpublicity.com.au
Bruce Pollack, Pollack Consulting T: (02) 9331 5276 or
E: bruce@pollackconsulting.com

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UNCLE EDDIE MABO HONOURED WITH A STAR
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In recognition of Mabo Day, this year Sydney Observatory will name a star from the Sydney Southern Star Catalogue in honour of Uncle Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo. On 3 June members of the Mabo family will attend the Observatory for a dedication ceremony and be given the opportunity to view the star from one of the Observatory’s telescopes.

Director of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), Rose Hiscock, said the dedication was an opportunity for the Observatory to recognise the ongoing legacy of Uncle Eddie.

“The stars have great significance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and it is fitting that we honour Uncle Eddie through the dedication of a star in our most iconic constellation, the Southern Cross,” said Ms Hiscock.

“This star is visible not only from the telescopes at Sydney Observatory, but also from Uncle Eddie’s home, Murray Island in the Torres Strait.

“For MAAS this is a genuine demonstration of respect for the Elders of our community and a recognition of the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have made to our culture.”

Members of the public can see the star dedicated in Uncle Eddie’s memory on nightly tours at Sydney Observatory, which include telescope viewing of the night sky. The stars in the Southern Cross are most prominent from Sydney Observatory throughout the winter months.

On 3 June MAAS will also present its inaugural Mabo Day Address with Genevieve Grieves, part of an ongoing commitment to demonstrating reconciliation.

Photo opportunity: Members of the Mabo family onsite at Sydney Observatory
Dates: 2pm, 2 June 2015
Address: Sydney Observatory, 1008 Upper Fort St, Millers Point

Interviews available on request

Media inquiries:
Rebekah Waite, Communications Manager, 0466 331 483 rebekah.waite@maas.museum