Doors open to Bangor University museum collections

Bangor University’s museum collections will be open to the public as a part of the Open Doors events on Saturday 27 September.

The Open Doors event, led by Cadw, gives the public the opportunity to have a look at some of Gwynedd and Conwy’s historical buildings, gardens and interesting and unusual locations all for free throughout September.

This is an opportunity to visit the University’s Natural History Museum which is not usually accessible to the public to learn more about the animals and plants on display in addition to a chance to ask questions to the experts available.  The Natural History Museum in the Brambell Building will be open to the public between 10am and 12pm.

There will also be guided tours of the University’s Art and Ceramic Collections led by an expert guide. Highlights include a mural by Edward Povey in Powis Hall, art and ceramics in the Council Chamber Corridor and a chance to see and learn about works of arts by other renowned artists such as Kyffin Williams, Brenda Chamberlain, Peter Prendergast and Frederick William Hayes. The guided tours will start from the foyer of the Main Arts Building at 1pm-2pm and 2:30pm-3:30pm.

Professor Jerry Hunter, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Bangor University stated:

“It’s a pleasure to take part in Open Doors and give people the opportunity to see inside the Main Building and enjoy the wealth of our collections.”

Councillor John Wynn Jones, Gwynedd Council Economy Cabinet Member added:

“The Open Doors events are brilliant opportunities that offer local residents and visitors a chance to enjoy our area’s wonderful attractions. I’m pleased that we were able to work with Bangor University to arrange this event that compliments the “Engaging Collections: Widening Access to Gwynedd’s Heritage” project that is partly funded through the Heritage Lottery Fund.

“If you’ve ever wanted to have a peek at the University’s rare collections, this is your chance. It’s also a brilliant opportunity to learn more about the vast variety of artefacts included in the exhibition from University experts.”

Booking is advisable for the guided tours, as there is a maximum of 25 per tour. To book your place, contact Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery by phoning 01248 353 368 or email gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk

For more information about other Open Doors events across North Wales throughout September, visit www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/opendoors

Publication date: 17 September 2014