The National Museum of Cardiff stands tall as an architectural marvel that brings locals and further travellers to visit. It is a true gem of Cardiff that many do not appreciate. The museum is full of stories that enrapture its guests, from the young school kids to the older couples. The feelings of reflection filling the peaceful atmosphere of the museum. All of them wandering the rooms with hushed whispers of admiration for the wonders in front of them. Why would you not want to visit The National Museum of Cardiff – especially if its free?
Although the old, stone building may look beautiful outside, it is inside that holds a vast of amount of culture and history to excite both young and old minds alike. As visitors step through the threshold, they are transported into a place where the past is not merely preserved but brought to life in vivid detail. The peaceful atmosphere encourages its visitors to ponder at through the thought-provoking exhibits.
The variety of work and history within the museum is astounding. With rooms and trails full of culture that visitors can explore. From the fossils giving the grounding for life and Wales’s geological understandings to the artwork from painters like Monet and Van Gough. A spectacular adventure awaits anyone who enters The National Museum of Cardiff.
I think the sentiment that stands strong is the pride of being Welsh and understanding the history of where you are from. As someone who moved to Wales several years ago now I have always appreciated the detailed awareness that Welsh people have of their language, culture, and history. This knowledge is something evident even in this museum in exhibitions that include the works of renowned Welsh photographer David Hurn and his photo of The Aberfan Disaster.
The other exhibition of ‘The Evolution of Wales’ offers insights into the natural history through the perspective of following Wales evolution across the planet billions of years ago. The fossils on display, often found in Wales, leave visitors in amazement as we travel through the years. Interacting with the exhibition through the various geology elements on display. The various screening rooms within the exhibition offers an immersive experience. Allowing us to feel as if we have travelled back in time to witness the development of the natural history of Wales. The feeling of wonder filling the silences. Once again the pride of the Welsh culture continues as the narration plays in both Welsh and English.
Welsh culture is prevalent within the museum’s artwork too with exhibitions that highlight and celebrate the history and famous faces of Wales. However, the various exhibitions represent the history and culture from around the world. Transporting the museum further than Cardiff to France, Italy and China. Including, iconic artifacts from Van Gough and Monet. A true privilege to be in the presence of such prominent historical art that has shaped art history throughout the world. Visitors slowly walk around stopping and admiring the scale and details of the beautiful paintings in front of them.
The modern work encapsulates modern culture too with ‘Reframing Picton’ giving us a modern view of our understanding of history. Letting us question historical figures such as who was Lieutenant-General Sir Thomas Picton? A war hero. A cruel tyrant. A symptom of the British Empire. A modern work different to that of Van Gough but still as thought provoking.
A detailed adventure of natural history and cultural art that transports us from natural history billions of years ago, significant art history and the analysis of history in modern art. Children and adults alike admiring the rich history and cultural significance of the artifacts within The National Museum of Cardiff.
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