Royal BC Museum unveils new exhibits
By Neil Judson
The parting of three black curtains revealed the Royal BC Museum's 2011/2012 exhibition schedule on Wednesday (Sept. 28).
From the gaping jaws of a towering dinosaur to the glitter and grace of a waving Queen Elizabeth II, the international lineup is designed to appeal to a wide demographic, including budding paleontologists, royalty aficionados and nature lovers.
The three touring international exhibits will begin December 16 with the North American premiere of Wildlife Photographer of the Year from London's Natural History Museum. An ancient-looking tortoise slowly greeted the audience to help announce the exhibit, which will showcase more than 100 award-winning photographs in 18 categories, chosen from more than 40,000 entries from around the world.
In May 2012, Dinosaurs: Ancient Fossils, New Discoveries will shed new light on these fascinating creatures that were first identified nearly 200 years ago. Perfect for all ages, this exhibit is organized by the American Museum of Natural History in New York and is making its only Canadian appearance in Victoria.
With the arrival of Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton in June 2012, the Royal BC Museum will be the place to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Nearly 100 photographs from the royal photographer will tell a visual tale of princess, monarch and mother alongside extracts from Beaton's personal diaries and letters.
A convincing Queen Elizabeth II helps introduce Cecil Beaton's royal photography
The international touring lineup follows a year-long exploration of the museum's 125 years of research and collections, which concludes October 10.
"After a successful run offering a behind the scenes glimpse of our own natural history collection, we are throwing open the doors for our visitors to experience new explorations and discoveries," said Pauline Rafferty, Royal BC Museum CEO. "This year’s exhibitions herald from collections across the country, across the world and across time - there is something exciting for everyone."
The tortoise attempts to exit stage right
On Thursday (Oct. 6), Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa is sponsoring the Royal BC Museum's presentation of Artifact or Artifiction, a fundraising gala where guests will put their trivia knowledge to the test. Parkside is donating one of the grand prizes: seven nights at the winner's choice of Aviawest properties across BC (any combination), along with $200 at AquaTerre Spa and $200 at The Landing West Coast Grill.