Palaeographia: an exhibition blending science and art

The exhibition Palaeographia was developed for the First International Palaeontological Congress. It consisted of original Australian fossil specimens juxtaposed with scientific illustrations and interpretive artworks in a variety of media. It illustrated Australia's palaeontological heritage. The linkage between science and art triggered positive comments by visitors. The exhibition was popular with families and school groups and provided an opportunity to develop education programmes that incorporated both art and science elements. The exhibition was therefore a mechanism for introducing a new audience to the gallery experience. An exhibition like this could only be developed in a University. The complex and diverse nature of its intellectual base allows a fertile collaboration between groups that rarely work together elsewhere. It was also a good example of how a University Gallery can promote the endeavours of its scientists to a broader audience.