SAntos
Museum of
Economic Botany
Exterior of MEB c 1883, photo Samuel Sweet
interior of MEB early c1881
Decorative frieze revealed under layers of “government grey” paint, 200, photo Paul Atkins
MUSEUM OF ECONOMIC BOTANY
The Museum of Economic Botany, first opened in May 1881, has had a continuous life dedicated to the collection and interpretation of ‘useful’ plants.
It is significant because the whole entity has survived: building, interior decoration, showcases, collections and even many labels.
In 2009 a major refurbishment project led by Peter Emmett (curator and historian) and Tony Kanellos (BGA cultural collections manager) was completed, preserving the original decorative ceiling, restoring all other paintwork and showcases, and adapting services to modern museum standards. New displays in old showcases combine original 1880s material with objects added to the collection over 120 years, including a digital media survey of plants used by different cultures. Aboriginal displays, neglected in the original museum, were made possible through collaboration with the South Australian Museum. Artist Fiona Hall was commissioned to create a site specific artwork with a new twist on economic botany. Khai Liew Design has created a unique contemporary space for temporary exhibitions. These new features will allow the museum to continue its historic educational role for future generations.
The Museum of Economic Botany refurbishment project
was supported by the Australian Government with
a grant of $1.125m in April 2007.
Interior of MEB 2009, photo Grant Hancock
19th century papier mache models from Germany, photo Paul Atkins