Bushrangers, oddities, true crime and scandal come together in this modern day cabinet of curiosities. The exhibition explores the exploitation of convicts, criminals and the disreputable for public entertainment in Australia during the 19th century. Curator, Joanna Gilmour, is intrigued by this time in history and has created an exhibition that will simultaneously captivate, repulse and amuse the inquisitive minds of visitors.
The range of works in the exhibition are rich and fascinating, ranging from the satirical images of Botany Bay bound convicts from the 18th century to examples of death masks, such as Ned Kelly’s, displayed to ghoulish and sensational effect in waxworks until the early 20th century.
National Portrait Gallery
Until 28 February, 2016
Australian Capital Territory
Prison photograph of Ned Kelly, 1873, photographer unknown, albumen silver photograph
Collection of the National Museum of Australia
Courtesy National Portrait Gallery, Australian Capital Territory
