History Redux Flashcards
What is the definition of a diorama?
Diorama Article
freeze-framed vignettes of animals and people in their habitats
What is the intention of a diorama?
Diorama Article
“The intention of a diorama is to build a replica of a specific ecosystem and to do it with such precision that they become time capsules for that environment,” says Delehanty.
What are two examples of dioramas Aaron Delahanty has created?
Diorama Article
Southern China in 5500 BC and east Africa in 1896
How were taxidermied animals displayed until the late 19th century?
Diorama Article
Until the late 19th century, most museums displayed taxidermied animals and other natural specimens in aseptic rows of glass cabinets.
Who is Carl Akeley?
Diorama Article
A taxidermist at the Milwaukee Field Museum
What did Carl Akeley do that shifted the taxidermist field?
Diorama Article
He created what became known as the “Akeley method” which involved creating a custom artificial environment — including rocks, soil, trees, sky, and whatever else was seen in the field — for a group of animals.
What was Carl Akeley’s first example of a diorama created using the Akeley method?
Diorama Article
The first example was his diorama of five muskrats in a carefully conceived set that contained a den, reeds, logs and sediment.
What is the reason dioramas were created?
Diorama Article
Although early dioramas depended on the use of hunted animals, they were born from the desire to protect the planet’s fauna and flora
Who were some people needed to create dioramas?
Diorama Article
scientists, sculptors, taxidermists, carpenters, muralists and painters
Why would diorama creators like Akeley would go to the locations they’d later manufacture?
Diorama Article
In part to collect specimens but also to know their subjects and surroundings intimately
How did the team at The Field Museum begin work on the hyena diorama project?
Diorama Article
- The team at The Field Museum started by looking at every available resource related to Akeley’s trip to Africa.
- Studied an expedition member’s journal, Akeley’s glass negatives, and even consulted astronomy charts.
- Gathered details about the size and shape of rocks, the colour of the sand, and the flora and fauna in the area during the specific time of the hyena collection.
What measures did the team take to ensure every detail was accurate in the hyena diorama?
Diorama Article
- Made rocks from chicken wire and plaster
- Constructed plant replicas from neoprene poured into plaster moulds and hand-painted them
- They consulted botanists and biologists to verify every detail
- recreated the dung beetle’s ball of poo to match the environment accurately
Why were the hyenas, prepared by Akeley a century ago, X-rayed before being included in the diorama?
Diorama Article
- The hyenas were X-rayed to understand how they were put together by Akeley.
- This helped the conservators in their work to “refresh” the hyenas by fixing tears in their skin and fading in their fur.
- Additionally, the X-rays ensured that all specimens were handled with care, especially considering the past use of toxic chemicals like arsenic in taxidermy.
What is the mission behind creating these habitat dioramas?
Diorama Article
- The mission behind creating habitat dioramas is to educate museumgoers about rare animals they may never see in person
- As well, to foster a sense of care and appreciation for these creatures.
- By accurately depicting the animal’s ecosystems they inhabit, dioramas aim to create an immersive experience that sparks curiosity and concern for conservation.
How did Aaron Delehanty convey the identity of the Hemudu culture in the Field Museum diorama?
Diorama Article
- Aaron Delehanty worked closely with archaeologists to depict a community near the Yangtze River.
(- He placed puddles throughout the village and had people interacting with them, recognizing the central importance of water to their identity. - Delehanty also built the homes with popsicle stick floorboards, intentionally worn down to tell a complex story of generations of people living in the area)
What is essential for a diorama creator like Aaron Delehanty when working on a project?
Diorama Article
- Keen observation and attention to detail
- He spends time studying nature, taking inspiration from real environments, and observing tiny details to recreate them accurately in his dioramas.
How is the diorama of the city of Rochester from 1838 being updated for the 21st century?
Diorama Article
- The diorama of the city of Rochester from 1838 is being updated with new lighting, augmented reality, and possibly a soundscape
- This effort aims to enhance the visitor’s experience and make the diorama feel more immersive and relevant in the modern era.
What is the significance of dioramas despite the availability of modern technology like Google Earth and social media platforms?
Diorama Article
- Unique perspective (that cannot be replicated by modern tech)
- 3D experience, allowing visitors to connect with the habitats and animals in a more personal way.
- Dioramas continue to be valued for their ability to create a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world.
What can visitors experience at Poble Espanyol?
Poble Espanyol Article
Visitors to Poble Espanyol can experience the soul of Spain by admiring traditional architecture, buying local craftsmanship, and enjoying traditional food. The open-air museum features replicas of buildings from various regions of Spain, creating an authentic Spanish atmosphere.
How was Poble Espanyol created and why was it initially intended to be demolished?
Poble Espanyol Article
Poble Espanyol was built for the 1929 World’s Fair in Barcelona. Designed by architect Puig i Cadafalch, the village was meant to showcase the diverse architecture of Spain. After the exhibition, it was intended to be demolished, but its popularity led to its preservation, despite facing challenges during Franco’s regime.
What are some highlights and attractions within Poble Espanyol?
Poble Espanyol Article
Poble Espanyol offers a variety of attractions, including replicas of characteristic Spanish buildings, a multimedia area showcasing Spain’s cultural diversity, the Fran Daurel Museum of Contemporary Art, traditional craftsmen’s workshops, and restaurants offering local cuisine. Visitors can also enjoy evening events and concerts during the summer season.
How does Poble Espanyol provide a unique experience for its visitors?
Poble Espanyol Article
Poble Espanyol provides a unique experience by allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic Spanish way of life through traditional architecture, crafts, and cuisine. The open-air museum captures the essence of different Spanish regions, and multimedia areas engage all the senses in experiencing the cultural richness of the country.
What is Heritage Park and what can be seen there?
Heritage Park Article
- Largest living history museum in Canada
- Employees of Heritage Park dressed in character eager to educate
- Park is populated with heritage buildings from around Alberta and walking through the village gives you a true essence of the past
- Sound of the steam engine in the background and horse carts being pulled on the streets, feels like you’re in 1905
What is the span of Heritage Park?
(Meaning the amount of exhibits and the size of the park)
Heritage Park Article
200+ exhibits and attractions spread over 127 acres of lush parkland
