Secrets of QVMAG set to be explored

 Media release – Issued Friday 10 July 2020

Would it be wise to go face-to-face with an ostrich in the wild?

Would you like to know the hidden truth behind one of QVMAG's most prized artworks?

Or, see the world's largest species of monkey up close?

These are some of the fascinating secrets Northern Tasmanians will be able to uncover as part of the Queen Victoria Art Gallery's new tour program.

The Queen Victoria Art Gallery at Royal Park is set to re-open on Monday, July 13.

To celebrate the reopening, a range of guided tours will be on offer for the community, allowing them to experience the QVMAG's extensive collection.

Tours include:

  • Secrets of the QVMAG Collection — a behind the scenes view of the QVMAG audit and the works being catalogued
  • First Tasmanians: Our Story — a guided tour of indigenous tradition and culture
  • Weird, Wild and Wacky — an activity-based, family-friendly tour through the world of natural sciences

With three tour rotations on offer from 2.15pm each day, there are endless tales to uncover within the Art Gallery.

Free for a limited introductory period, patrons will have the opportunity to explore natural sciences, fine art and the rich history of Tasmania.

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said each tour would uncover quirky highlights about Tasmania, past scientific practices, and the unique works now on display as part of the collection audit.

"From exotic animal species, convicts who found their claim to fame in the global art scene, and tales of sea creatures buried deep under the soil of the QVMAG grounds — the QVMAG holds many secrets," Mayor van Zetten said.

"These tours are an exciting new option for Northern Tasmanian families to explore, with exiting activities for kids and interesting insights into the collection from the adults."

QVMAG General Manager Tracy Puklowski said amazing tales of history, art and science interspersed the QVMAG collection archive.

"Explore the life of Herbert Hedley Scott, the first full-time curator of the museum, and explore some of his personal scientific instruments."

"Hear the stories passed down of natural science practices including the research of animal species — some of which were buried in the grounds of QVMAG Royal Park to speed up the decomposition process and collect the bones for research."

"Within the activity-based tour available for children and families, you'll be getting up close and personal with an array of fascinating taxidermy animal species — including the mandrill, the world's largest species of monkey.."

"Famously represented as Rafiki in the family smash hit the Lion King — you'll be getting up close and personal with some of the world's most fascinating, and beautiful, creatures."

Tour bookings are available via www.qvmag.gov.au — bookings are essential.

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