SPECIAL PROJECT 2009: Catalogue "Inspirations"

Dominique got the wheels turning and a committee representing our diverse membership met to develop the idea. What we decided upon was a catalogue-style book, highlighting 40 key museum pieces you might see on a typical tour, with a tentative working title: “Forty @ Forty”. Through the input of many members, and the museum staff, we clarified that concept and began work on the ambitious project.

We envisioned a catalogue-style book, an update of our Treasures book, with new photographs, a reader-friendly layout, a template of basic museum-style information, and a brief summary of the objects we have chosen written in our Volunteer voices, all translated into our four guiding languages. Our hope is that this book will represent a wide variety of our members through their participation, and that it will be of high interest, when published, for both our members and visitors who tour the museum. Once complete, we hope to create signage for the museum that mirrors the book, so that museum visitors can continue to enjoy the book, matching the text with the objects.

Have a glimpse >>>

Choosing just 40 objects was our first obstacle, but we whittled down the list after input from our members, the curators, and the Director of the Museum. They represent the various art and history periods, and include both masterpieces, and common objects we've all come to love. With the template set, it is possible this can become a continuing project by adding 40 more objects in the future, and so on.

Many people came forward to help--one of the many strengths of our National Museum Volunteers. Over 30 people chose one of the objects, researched it, and wrote 200 words to make the piece come to life. Another team edited the words to find a common voice for the text, while a team of experts checked facts. Translators worked on translating the English words into German, French and Japanese. Others are working on the glossary, the bibliography, and historical information. And, the layout and photography team has created an original concept for the catalogue with stunning photos and a fresh design.

Many people have worked to create this special birthday gift for the NMV. It is a year of celebrations. "Inspirations - A Guide to Our Forty Favorite Pieces by The National Museum Volunteers Bangkok" is one of many gifts made by and for the NMV this year.