We are busily preparing to relocate our depots: 75,000 objects are being made ready for transport to the new Erfgoedfabriek and BRUSK. A massive job, but this summer the extra hands of our many volunteers have made the task easier and more enjoyable. So in this month's relocation blog, we are delighted to shine the spotlight on our volunteer workers.
As you may know, Musea Brugge's major collection move involves two major projects. There is the move of the applied arts and folk collection to the Erfgoedfabriek, and the move of the prints and paintings collection to the depots in the future BRUSK.
The preparations for both these two major relocations are in full swing: cleaning, digitising, packing objects, etc. A total of 17 colleagues from Musea Brugge's Collection department are on the job. But since this summer, we have been able to count on extra help.
This spring, a volunteer programme was rolled out as part of the Collection department's relocation projects. Colleagues work together at set times with a group of volunteers to prepare the folk and print collection for relocation. This means that we are able to rely on the help of both the Friends of Musea Brugge and other interested parties.
The Friends of Musea Brugge ('De Vrienden van Musea Brugge') has been a partner organisation of Musea Brugge for over 60 years. The association organises interesting lectures and excursions, and also support us with donations, purchases and other tasks. Their volunteers are working on both relocation projects. Heritage lovers who are not members of the Friends are naturally also welcome to join our volunteer workforce.
For the folk collection, the main focus is on the extensive textile collection. This includes headwear, costumes, lace, embroidery samplers and darning samplers, and christening gowns. The volunteers help to dust off, photograph, register and pack everything. Do you want to know how we prepare our collection objects for moving? Discover all the steps here. Some industrious sewers also make protective covers for the costumes and puppets.
Working with the conservator of the paper collection, volunteers create new acid-free mounts and storage sleeves for drawings and prints. Volunteers also assist in the Print Room depot with the relocation registration of works on paper.
The relocation of our depots is quite an undertaking. But we are making great strides with the help of our volunteers. Therefore, we would like to thank the volunteers very much for their help, commitment and interest!