A couple of weeks ago, the team from Paisley Museum hosted an event at the recently refurbished Town Hall.
The get-together was an opportunity for those who had contributed to the ongoing co-production work targeted at rethinking and reconfiguring the exhibits to be on show once the curtain on the multi-million pound refit (undertaken as part of Future Paisley’s Town Centre Regeneration) is lifted, to meet. Beyond this, it was also a chance for members of the different groups who had taken part in this process to get a first look at the work that they and others had been doing as part of a showcase of a selection of short, informative and community-focused films and signposting which is to be a central to the curation and presentation of objects in the new space.
There followed a very enjoyable and enlightening few hours over the course of which, attendees were treated to a showcase of 5 short films alongside fascinating insight into their production and, the meaning and value that this had for community members who contributed. Both in terms of some of the skills that they were able to learn along the way and, the enjoyment resulting from the chance to share their interpretation of a selection of the Museum’s objects.
And so it was that the audience were treated to a delightful sneak preview of the new, community-centred curation; films topics included the UK’s last communist MP, Paisley born Willie Gallacher (with involvement of pupils from Linwood High School), a piece highlighting the beguiling beauty and contemporary resonance of the collection’s pieces of 2000 year old Syrian glass (created alongside New Scots from Syria) and the Scottish Co-operative Women’s Guild and past member, Molly Mercer (in collaboration with members of Kairos Women+).
Clearly, the co-production approach taken by the museum staff and film makers liaising and collaborating with the community groups working on the short films and accompanying signposting information has emphasised a genuine embrace of a community-led approach. This is very evident in the delightful individuality of each of the short films which range across stop-motion animation, time-travelling period piece and food or music focused documentary in narrative approach.
Lunch in a cavernous and beautifully restored space was followed by a workshop session, providing the opportunity for community members and groups who have worked to create these pieces to reflect upon this process. It will be a real treat to see the films and signposting incorporated into the exhibiting space when the curtain lifts on the Museum’s regeneration!
This blog was written by Sophie Mamattah, Research Associate at CCSE.
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