Discoveries
Art, Science and Exploration from the University of Cambridge Museums
January 31st 2013 - April 27th 2014, Two Temple Place
May 27th - July 27th 2014, Fitzwilliam Museum
Presenting singular objects and unearthing little-known treasures in the extraordinary interiors of Two Temple Place on London’s Embankment, Discoveries is the first major exhibition to bring together the fascinating collections from all eight University of Cambridge Museums.
The exhibition challenges and responds to the very notion of ‘discovery’, displaying objects that span millennia; from artworks to scientific artefacts, historic instruments to rare zoological specimens. It is about imagination and knowledge, the pleasures of looking and the power of objects to generate wonder as well as new ideas.
The University of Cambridge has long been at the forefront of learning, invention, exploration and discovery across the arts and the sciences. The University of Cambridge Museums have grown alongside this research and teaching, founded and developed by scholars and collectors to house their collections of objects and works.
This exhibition continues Two Temple Place’s series of annual winter exhibitions showcasing collections from outside central London. A programme of exhibition events will include performing arts, workshops, talks, guided tours and a range of children’s activities.
Discoveries is curated by Professor Nick Thomas (Director of Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology) and Martin Caiger-Smith (curatorial advisor to Two Temple Place and Head of MA Programme: Curating the Art Museum at Courtauld Institute of Art) with the University of Cambridge Museums Programme Curator, Dr Lydia Hamlett.