British Museum Reimagines Captain Cook's Legacy in New Exhibition
The British Museum in London presents 'Reimagining Captain Cook', an exhibition marking 250 years since the explorer's first Pacific voyage. The show features 88 objects and images, including eight newly acquired works from the regions Cook visited, alongside 14 contemporary art pieces. Divided into seven sections corresponding to locations such as Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, Hawaii, Tahiti, and Great Britain, the exhibition juxtaposes historical artifacts with works by Indigenous artists. Highlights include Lisa Reihana's 'Taking Possession, Lono', Michael Cook's photograph from the 'Civilised' series, and a 1970s 'Aloha Shirt' recently acquired by the museum. Curator Julie Adams emphasizes the complex legacy of Cook's expeditions, while contemporary works by artists like Michel Tuffery and Simon Gende address colonial impacts. The exhibition runs until August 4, 2019.
Key facts
- Exhibition 'Reimagining Captain Cook' at British Museum in London
- 250th anniversary of Cook's first Pacific voyage
- 88 objects and images on display
- 14 contemporary art works included
- Eight newly acquired works from Pacific regions
- Seven sections: Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, New Caledonia, Hawaii, Vanuatu, Tahiti, Great Britain
- Features Lisa Reihana's 'Taking Possession, Lono'
- Includes Michael Cook's photograph from 'Civilised' series
- 1970s 'Aloha Shirt' recently acquired by museum
- Curated by Julie Adams, Oceania collection curator
- Runs until August 4, 2019
Entities
Artists
- Lisa Reihana
- Michael Cook
- Michel Tuffery
- Simon Gende
- Steve Gibbs
Institutions
- British Museum
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Aotearoa New Zealand
- New Zealand
- New Caledonia
- Hawaii
- Vanuatu
- Tahiti
- Great Britain