OBJECTS ON THE MOVE

Plan your visit now

In this newly refurbished gallery dedicated to collections care and inspired by visitor feedback, rarely-seen items like charming toys, rare furniture pieces and architectural fragments take the spotlight. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how objects are stored, moved, cleaned, conserved and prepared for future displays and exhibitions.

Learn about the Museum’s team prevent and minimise damage to objects from risks like light exposure, pests, temperature changes, humidity, and improper handling when caring for the growing collection. With the Museum’s mission to improve access to objects, over 10% of the 58,000 object collection is now on view for you to discover and connect with.

Learn how the Collections team made the gallery come to life below:

FROM THE BLOG

Creating a Space to Explore Collections Care

Over the last two years there has been a spurt of object movement at Museum, spurred on by the implementation of its new Mission and Values and focusing on making the collections more accessible.  Some objects in storage are being relocated and some storerooms are being re-purposed.  The result is that many objects which haven’t

Joe completing a cleaning task with the collections team

Young Volunteers: Joe

I have been visiting The Bowes Museum for as long as I can remember, seeing many different changes and exhibitions, yet I have always remained intrigued about how these came to be and how the Museum really works behind the scenes. So, when the chance to volunteer here came to me, I jumped at the