Staff at the Wallace Collection started to think about creating an exhibition that would be aimed at children after hearing about another museum that decided to hang paintings at a child's eye level, to engage them. This evolved into a collaboration with St Vincent's Catholic Primary, located just behind the museum in Marylebone, where twelve children became curators of the exhibition which opens today.
"Shhh, It's A Secret" showcases objects from the museum's extensive collection which conceal secrets, such as the miniatures inside Voltaire's snuff box, and decodes their symbolism in an interactive exhibition aimed at families. Most of the exhibit labels were written by the children who have been involved with all aspects of the project for over a year. Figure out which helmet visor is a 150-year old fake, discover the 'secrete' armour that aided duelling Musketeers, and contribute a postcard to the Fragonard-inspired 'Tree of Secret Messages'. Bring your own invisible ink.
The Wallace Collection, Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN, open 10:00am to 5:00pm daily. Free Admission.
