Discovery Collection 23/24: In Conversation with Chris Tassell

Join arts and cultural heritage expert Christopher Tassell for an insightful discussion about QVMAG and its treasures.

Explore the latest additions to the museum’s collection, showcased in a captivating exhibition at the Art Gallery at Royal Park. As the donor of the COMA (Collection of Medical Artefacts) collection, Tassell will delve into the fascinating stories behind these medical objects, which were housed in COMA's Hobart museum until 2022. He will also share his deep museological expertise and personal experiences.

This event is part of an engaging series that examines cultural collections from diverse perspectives. Hear from speakers as they share their journeys as artists, collectors, and donors, offering unique insights into their contributions to QVMAG’s ever-evolving collection.

Christopher Tassell has extensive experience in arts and cultural heritage management. He has served as the Director of the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) in Launceston and as the Managing Director of the National Trust Tasmania. His career includes overseeing the redevelopment of the former Tasmanian Railways Workshops at Inveresk, integrating contemporary museum facilities into one of the state's most significant industrial heritage sites. Chris has also been involved with numerous arts and heritage boards at regional, state, and national levels, including Australia Council (now known as Creative Australia).

The Discovery Collection 23/24 exhibition highlights a selection of acquisitions made over the past two years, including significant historical objects, rare natural specimens, and remarkable works of art by both established and emerging local artists.

Since 1842, QVMAG has been dedicated to showcasing Tasmania’s diverse natural and cultural heritage. As the largest regional collection in Australia with over 1.5 million objects, the Collection stands out for its scale and multidisciplinary focus.

Each object offers something unique to experience—whether valued for its originality, beauty, rarity, or historical significance.

The exhibition also offers insights into the often behind-the-scenes acquisition process, which plays a vital role in preserving the past and shaping the future.

Through its wide-ranging collection spanning natural sciences, history, and visual art, QVMAG continues to connect communities to Tasmania’s history while offering perspectives on future possibilities.

DISCOVERY COLLECTION 23/24
Art Gallery at Royal Park | 2 Wellington St, Launceston
28 September 2024 — 2 February 2025
Free entry | Open daily | 10am to 4pm | January 10 am-5pm

Image: General Electric, X-ray tube and associated equipment, made in1956. Donated by COMA (Collection of Medical Artefacts). Photo: QVMAG.

Host or Publisher QVMAG