In the recently concluded Muse Fest HK 2024, the three activities organised by the Conservation Office were akin to a cultural fest, allowing the public to explore the fascinating world of museum conservation in a relaxing and pleasurable setting. This experience piqued participants’ interest in history and fuelled their desire to conserve cultural relics!

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In the "Wax in Conservation" programme, participants transformed into cultural relics guardians and experienced the daily work of conservators firsthand. Under professional guidance, they learned how to use various wax materials to protect precious artefacts and developed an appreciation for the diligent approach and creative thought that conservators bring to their work.

Wax, produced from animal, plant, or mineral sources, is well-suited for the protection of museum objects due to its malleability, ease of melting, and water-insoluble properties. It can form a protective layer on the surface of artefacts, effectively shielding them from the moisture and oxygen in the air, thereby slowing the aging process.

Additionally, the wooden cake moulds, which are part of the Hong Kong Museum of History's valuable collection, are also the focus of the Conservation Office's protection efforts. Participants created light clay cake model magnets using the wooden cake moulds, learning about the rich culinary history and culture embodied by these traditional tools.

We were delighted to share our work and conservation techniques with over 1,500 members of the public during the programme, allowing more people to experience the charm and significance of cultural heritage conservation.

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Programme 2: "Not Just Wood" - Exploring from Wooden Cake Moulds: Conservation x History @ Lecture + Workshop

This year, the Conservation Office collaborated with the Hong Kong Museum of History and the Chinese Culture Promotion Office to jointly organise the "Not Just Wood" - Exploring from Wooden Cake Moulds: Conservation x History @ Lecture + Workshop. The event was divided into two main parts.

The first part was a lecture that spanned traditional culture and scientific fields. The two speakers skillfully combined the professional knowledge of museum conservation with the history of Chinese culinary culture embodied by the wooden cake moulds, enabling each mould to share its own tale. Following the lecture, the Hong Kong Museum of History specially exhibited its precious collection of wooden cake moulds, allowing the public to appreciate the master craftsmanship and the awe-inspiring designs and patterns up close. 

The second part of the event was a workshop that allowed participants to directly experience the joy of hands-on work. In addition to creating adorable light clay cake model magnets, participants had the opportunity to learn how to use common wood conservation materials and personally repair damage and defects on wooden blocks.

Through practical application, they not only acquired basic wood repair techniques, but also evaluated the effects and application methods of different conservation materials. Participants also examine cross-sections of hardwood and softwood under a microscope, applying the knowledge gained from the lecture to deepen their understanding of the characteristics of wood.
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The speaker, Ms. Lu Yan-ling, provided an in-depth and accessible presentation on the deterioration and damage conditions of various cultural relics, as well as the underlying causes. She also introduced the evolving concept of preventive conservation and the relevant practices implemented by the Shenzhen Museum. 

The participants were greatly enlightened by the rarely seen conservation processes and the underlying professional knowledge shared during the lecture. They expressed a strong desire to learn more. This lecture not only showcased the professionalism of museum conservation work but also, through the sharing of fascinating case studies, allowed the audience to develop a deeper understanding of the importance of preventive conservation and the various challenges involved.

These three events sparked passion and interest in preventive conservation in addition to broadening the public's knowledge of interventive conservation. We anticipate more interesting and educational events like this in the future! For the most recent information, please keep visiting our website and following us on social media. We look forward to seeing you at the upcoming event!