This new exhibition at the Museum of Sydney is a hand picked snapshot of the past 200 years of life in New South Wales. A collection of 25 items from the NSW State Archives Collection each represents an event, social movement, issue, cultural phenomenon or moment of change.
Have a gander at an astounding 67-metre-long petition for clemency from 1879 which contains 6,500 signatures and represents a shift in social opinion towards abolishing the death penalty; the hugely influential 1787 Charter of Justice issued by King George III, which underpins our justice system today; the ‘Yellow Book’ folio encapsulating a critical stage in the evolution of architect Jørn Utzon’s design for the Sydney Opera House; and more recent publications from the 2000 Sydney Olympics and Paralympics organisers.
Each archival piece is accompanied by a reflection on its meaning today – with bold contemporary reflections from artists, writers, curators and commentators ranging from short films to infographic slides, music, posters, prose, animations, artworks and photography.
History Reflected is open from May 7 at the Museum of Sydney, near Circular Quay. The Museum is open from Thursday to Sunday, 10am-5pm. Exhibition entry is included with Museum entry (adults $15, concessions $12, children (5-15) $12 and families $38. SLM members receive free entry).
Enjoy free entry every Friday 5pm-8pm and weekends until June 30.