A Museum of the Mind - Exhibition from 23 Jan to 8 Feb

An exhibition showcasing plans and artwork for the new ‘Museum of the Mind’ at the Bethlem Royal Hospital will be on display in the Bethlem Gallery from 23 January to 8 February 2013. The exhibition will provide an opportunity for public consultation on this exciting new community and education project, devoted to the history of mental health care.

The Bethlem Archives & Museum has supported research and exhibited treasures from its collections for over 40 years from the same small building tucked away on the Bethlem site. The stunning new ‘Museum of the Mind’ is due to open in 2014. Central to the new museum will be a permanent exhibition which will draw on the internationally recognised collections of archives, art and historic objects. The Bethlem Art and History Collections Trust have commissioned Real Studios (who recently completed the Voyagers gallery at the National Maritime Museum) to develop designs for the exhibition, which will be made publicly available in this exhibition.

Our ‘Museum of the Mind’ will be housed in the prominent Administration Building, which includes a stunning Art Deco reception area and staircase and the historic Boardroom of the hospital. The development of the museum has been made possible by two substantial grants awarded to the Bethlem Art and History Collections Trust in 2010, from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Maudsley Charity. This exhibition will make the plans widely available for the first time, and we hope that many of our readers will take the opportunity to provide us with feedback, that will shape the final display, ensuring it meets the needs of all potential users.

On Saturday 2 February, at 2pm, we will be holding a consultation session. Visitors to the exhibition will be given a short talk on the plans by the Head of the Archives & Museum, followed by discussion. Don't miss the chance to have your say!

Exhibition details:

Opening Event: 23 January, 3 – 6 pm

Exhibition continues: 24 January – 8 February

Opening times: Wednesday – Saturday 11 am – 6 pm

Bethlem Gallery and Museum are both open Saturday 2 February, 11am – 5pm

Join us for a talk and discussion at the Gallery at 2pm