In the exhibition, visitors can explore the dramatic history of Louisbourg through antique maps, manuscripts, archaeological artifacts and an interactive touch screen display. The Hands-On Centre is a highlight of the exhibition where visitors can further investigate communication using 18th century techniques.
Visitors may write a letter with an authentic feather quill, or practice handwriting exercises from an 18th century encyclopedia. They might design a map from memory or imagination, just like the mapmakers featured in the exhibition. Finally, they can feel the excitement and accomplishment of producing their very own sheet of paper.
The Gallery recently hosted a group of eighth grade students from Sherwood Park Education Centre. The students participated in a scavenger hunt, tried their hand at quill writing and expertly pulled sheets of paper from vats of recycled wood pulp and cotton fibers.
Social studies and art teacher Elizabeth Lalonde said the following about their experience: “The CBU Art Gallery and its people provided the most suitable way to end a great year of hard work for my students.”
Walk-in tours of the exhibition are available for small groups. Please call ahead for groups of 10 or more. Gallery admission and activities are always free. Parking on campus is $1. The CBU Art Gallery is open Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm and Saturday afternoons from 12-4pm.
The Most Suitable Place, which runs until August 15, is a collaboration of Les Archives Charente-Maritime in La Rochelle, France, the Beaton Institute of Cape Breton University and Parks Canada’s Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. This is one of the many activities taking place this summer to celebrate Louisbourg300.
For more information contact the CBU Art Gallery at (902) 563-1342 or visit CBU Art Gallery online at cbu.ca or on Facebook.
