SAMA 80th National Conference 1-3 November 2016

Posted on January 19, 2017

In the first week of November, the South African Museum’s Association (SAMA) held its 80th National Conference, at Diep in die Berg, Wapadrand. As this was an important anniversary, it was expected to be as much a celebration of the Association as a conference. The SAMA North Branch was hosting this year’s national conference, and for a committee consisting of three members, it seems that we did quite well!

The unofficial opening and Ice Breaker of the conference was held at the Erfenisstigting at Monument Koppie. Delegates could walk through the exhibitions, which includes one on the history of the State Theatre, and enjoy some refreshments after.

On 1 November, the conference officially started. First, the current SAMA President gave his opening address and then various other organisations sent representatives to give “birthday” wishes to the association. Our Keynote Speaker was Dr Christian Greco, director of the Museum Egizio in Turin. Dr Greco is a renowned Egyptologist and the title of his presentation was “The creation of a sustainable cultural landscape and of a scientific network: dialogue as a tool, research as an end.” This presentation was very well received and it was unfortunate that Dr Greco had to fly home that same day.

The programme for the first day covered heritage legislation and other heritage organizations as well as museum education at various institutions. At the end of the day, delegates were taken to Freedom Park for a guided tour and reception.

During day two, the presentations during the first session focused on preservation, conservation and restoration, while session two had the theme of “Memories and memorials”. Day two’s programme was short, as after lunch delegates enjoyed their choice of excursion to either Maropeng or Cullinan, and the day ended with a picnic at Fort Schanskop under a huge paper-bark tree. While the picnic was rained out due to one of the highveld’s typical thunderstorms, delegates did get to walk away with a picnic bag each, courtesy of Tshwane Tourism.

The programme of the last day of the conference discussed marketing and audience development, new technology that heritage institutions can make use of, and the bridging of cultural gaps. The conference ended with a formal dinner at Diep in die Berg, a huge birthday cake and a conga line. Happy 80th Birthday, SAMA!

- Author Niki Haw (SAMA North/SAMA 80th National Conference Organizing Committee and Special Collections Co-ordinator)

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