Her Place Women's Museum: Pop Up Exhibition
16 May – 3 June 2016
Town Hall Room, Melbourne Town Hall
Women’s contributions and achievements are often overlooked and under-acknowledged. In 2000, Museums Australia penned a Women's Policy for Museum Programs and practice. It acknowledged that museums had traditionally represented dominant patriarchal interests and had therefore prioritised the experiences of men over women.
Women's interests were generally under represented in museum collections and publication programs. As a result, we know less about women's achievements in the public sphere, and run the risk of undervaluing their contribution to society. Significant work has been done by state and national museums to address this bias by showcasing the input of women across all fields of endeavour.
However, there is still a long way to go.
Her Place Women's Museum wishes to build on these foundations and establish a contemporary, energetic space dedicated to sharing the feats and accomplishments of Australian women. Her Place celebrate their social, civic and economic achievements and their critical role in shaping the landscape of our country. Her Place is a dynamic place of discovery, education, debate and engagement.
This exhibition and program of public events was designed to raise community awareness of Her Place, as well as seeking public investment in its development. Nine Victorian women shared their stories, highlighting their abilities and triumphs. In addition to these profiled women, a program of public discussion explored issues affecting women today of all ages.