The World Museum's botany collection contains a vast number of botanical items that often go unnoticed by the public. It is estimated that there are around 400,000 botanical specimens and a wealth of associated items. The botany collection is not only nationally and internationally significant but also rich in artistic and historical value. I want to share some of my favourite hidden items that I have come across during my research visits, which have inspired my own practice.
My favourite hidden items are the historical microscopic artworks. These intricate pieces showcase the marriage of science and art. From hand-drawn illustrations to darkroom photographs, each piece demonstrates the meticulous craftsmanship and skill of early botanists. It's fascinating to think about the patience and dedication required to create such artwork before the advent of digital tools.
Another collection that has inspired me is the beautifully crafted Brendal Models. These captivating 3D botanical structures, made from papier-mâché, offer a tactile representation of plant forms. They are playful and surreal in appearance, yet they also serve as educational tools that reveal complex botanical structures in an accessible and engaging way. The vibrant colours and intricate details are impressive, especially when realising that they were made by just two brothers.
Then, there are the botanical illustrations, which are beautifully drawn and painted. These illustrations accurately capture various plant species. Sadly, not all the illustrations have an artist's name associated with them due to a lack of art credits in the past; however, the museum is working hard to discover the artists behind these works. The collection serves as a historical record of plant diversity.
Exploring these hidden collections at the World Museum's Botany Collection is exciting for me, and they serve as a great source of inspiration. Due to the delicate nature of some of these items and other factors, such as limited space and funding, many cannot be put on display. However, I hope that by drawing inspiration from my own work and sharing it with the public, I can celebrate these historical items and give them the recognition they deserve.
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