Taking the time at Yarra Ranges Regional Museum
Published on 16 March 2023
Yarra Ranges Regional Museum is thrilled to open its latest exhibition, Taking the time: handmade objects from the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum collection, which is on display in the Box Gallery until Sunday 28 May 2023.
Taking the time invites audiences to immerse themselves in an array of inspiring handmade objects from Yarra Ranges Council’s rich cultural collection which includes new and old items, recent acquisitions, and some pieces that have never been displayed before.
The exhibition highlights some of the interesting, important, beautiful and unique objects that have been lovingly handmade in the area such as, Dame Nellie Melba’s illuminated address book, a floral still life collaged from postage stamps, hand-coloured architectural drawings from Yeringberg and even an embroidered cat.
It also showcases the Museum’s most recent acquisition, a meticulously woven Iuk (eel trap), by Wurundjeri Woiwurrung elder and artist Aunty Kim Wandin, kindly purchased with support from the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Trust.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, invited residents to attend the exhibition and said it was a delightful tribute to the Yarra Ranges and the remarkable creativity and craftsmanship of our region.
“Taking the time illustrates unique stories, people and the undeniable creative culture that characterises the Yarra Ranges.”
“It’s a wonderful celebration of this region and invites audiences to discover the ingenuity and skill of makers past and present,” said Cr Child.
Speaking at the opening, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Program Director, Megan Sheehy said the exhibition showcases an eclectic collection of items that depict resilience, ingenuity, and the passing down of skills and traditions.
“This rich yet eclectic arrangement tells a strong story about resilience, as evidenced through the repurposing of materials, mending and adaptation of textiles and handing down of skills and traditions. We are so lucky to have rich cultural collections that reflect and bolster our sense of identity even as we experience change or catastrophe,” she said.
“The exhibition also provides insight into rare trades and revived practices, as well as sharing the stories of unique people and the practices they value.
“We hope that it will encourage visitors to reflect on their own lives and creative experiences, to think about taking time to learn, teach or make what is important to them.”
Taking the time: handmade objects from the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum collection will be on show at Yarra Ranges Regional Museum from 8 March to 28 May 2023. Entry to the exhibition is free.
For more information visit Yarra Ranges Regional Museum
Yarra Ranges Regional Museum: 35-37 Castella Street, Lilydale