Exhibition launch for Marea and the Queen’s Purse 

Marea and the Queen’s Purse, an innovative new exhibition, will officially launch at the Museum of the Riverina’s Historic Council Chambers site this Saturday 17 August 2024.

Spotlighting renowned milliner and local Wagga Wagga icon Marea Bright, the exhibition illustrates a key moment in Marea’s life in the form of a children’s book, written by exhibition curator and Council’s Museum Assistant Collections and Programs, Sophie Magnusson.

The story follows Marea from her childhood in Wagga Wagga along a journey to the streets of Melbourne, all the way to London.

Having first learned about Marea and her career as a milliner in the 2021 exhibition Made in Wagga a Retrospective, curator Sophie Magnusson saw an opportunity to bring her story to life.

“I wanted to take the concept of an oral history and create something new that was more accessible and understandable to children,” Ms Magnusson said.

“I felt Marea’s story and the particular moment in her life that the exhibition touches on was a great way to do this.

“The exhibition is also a celebration of the international excellence that our city produces. I want to show young people that they can achieve truly exceptional things starting right here in our local area.”

Not only does the exhibition tell a fascinating local story, but it has been consciously designed to be cost effective and environmentally friendly by utilising recyclable cardboard panels to create a winding corridorlike structure.

Council’s Manager Museum Luke Grealy said, “the storytelling techniques and exhibition design are an innovative combination that have really brought the story of a local character to life".

“We also have workshops available for those wanting to learn from Marea and try their hand at hat making.”

Subject of the exhibition Marea Bright, also commented on the works, saying she was honoured to be recognised in this form.

“I was thrilled when Sophie first approached me with the idea of telling my story, having seen other people in museums and their achievements on display, I thought 'oh my goodness’,” Ms Bright said.

“It is amazing seeing the exhibition come to life and I’m so grateful to Sophie, it’s wonderful what she has been able to achieve in putting this together.”

The official launch of Marea and the Queen’s Purse will take place on Saturday 17 August at 2pm, and will include talks from a special guest speaker, curator Sophie Magnusson and milliner Marea Bright. This will be followed by an opportunity to view the exhibition while enjoying drinks and a classic afternoon tea spread.

For more information visit the museum website: