Storage revamp brings look back
Nearly all of Pataka’s 25,000 objects are on display in two exhibitions while the Porirua gallery’s storage facilities are upgraded.
Many of the objects in the Recollections exhibition came from Porirua Museum and some are out of storage for the first time since they came to Pataka in 1982.
Recollections features an eclectic selection of personal and household items from the early and mid-20th century; everything from toothpaste and medical equipment to an array of vacuum cleaners, toys and old tools.
Next door is the hoe and the hoiho exhibition, in which Titahi Bay-born artist Wayne Youle has put his spin on the objects, curating them to explore the idea of value.
Museum registrar Laureen Sadlier said the exhibitions showed the vast size and variety of the museum’s collection ‘‘as we’ve never been able to reveal before’’.
Two of her favourites are an old illuminated shop sign that reads ‘‘Buy your Gold Ticket Here’’, and a gas mask in its box. It also showcases much of Pataka’s Maori and art collection.
‘‘It really was a bit like Christmas here as we opened up boxes ... we never quite knew what we’d find.’’
The storage areas are being upgraded with new wall linings and insulation and top-quality museum standard fittings, including rolling shelves and art hanging racks.
‘‘It was pretty chaotic before and this upgrade will ensure we can keep our objects in the best possible condition and it will make better use of our storage space, allowing us to better organise our objects.’’
As part of the project, the Pataka team is taking the opportunity to refine the collection. ‘‘All our objects must be of historical significance to the development of Porirua City and its people.’’
Many of the historical objects on display will feature in several history exhibitions in the pipeline for this year and next.
Recollections runs until August 27.