Staff Picks: Favourites from the Canadian Museum of History
Joanne’s Pick: Archaeology and First Nations History
Joanne Bérubé, Operations Clerk, Visitors Services and Corporate Security
Detail of the exhibition From Time Immemorial — Tsimshian Prehistory, Canadian Museum of History, IMG2011-0142-0001-Dm
My favourite thing at the Museum is the reproduction of an archaeological dig, next to the Grand Hall, because it’s such a calm and peaceful spot. It is where I learned more about the lives of Indigenous Peoples of the Northwest Coast, and the role of archaeology. And what can I say about the massive 16.5 metre Haida canoe built by Alfred and Robert Davidson, which is also found in this space? It is the most impressive and imposing canoe I’ve ever seen! If you visit this spot, you definitely won’t be sorry. If you can’t come in person, make sure to check out the online virtual version of this exhibition.
Marie-Claude’s Pick: New Worlds Await
Marie-Claude Vachon, Coordinator, CINÉ+
CINÉ+ movie theatre, Canadian Museum of History, IMG2011-0049-0001-Dm
When I walk through the doors of the CINÉ+ movie theatre, I see an immense screen ready to take audiences on a great adventure. Film is an illuminating medium, with its bright light literally and metaphorically penetrating the darkness. Sitting here, we willingly surrender ourselves to new ideas and experiences, journeying below the sea, into space or up mountains. Housed in one of the building’s characteristic domes, CINÉ+ is both a physical part of the Museum and part of the journey visitors experience when they come here to understand Canada, the world or a bit more about themselves.
Éliane’s Pick: A Peaceful Nook
Éliane Laberge, Social Media and Media Relations Officer
The Japanese Zen Garden, Canadian Museum of History, IMG2011-0194-0008-Dm
The Japanese Zen Garden is a place I particularly love. Located on the Museum grounds adjacent to the Curatorial Building, this peaceful corner was created in 1995 by landscape architect and Zen Buddhist monk, Shunmyo Toshiaki Masuno. It is very serene, and whenever I need a bit of a break during the day, I go there to enjoy a moment of reflection and to contemplate the landscape. I also often go to the Japanese Zen Garden during the noon hour in the summer to read. The peace and tranquillity there is unparalleled. It is a very harmonious location that deserves to be better known!
What about you? What’s your favourite thing about the Canadian Museum of History?