In our modern, throw-away society, the words reuse, recycle, and repurpose have become a mantra of every-day life.
These ideas encourage us to value an object for more than its original intent/ use. To consider or re-imagine an object in a new or different context before throwing it away. To appreciate the skill that was required to create it.
Excellent examples of “up-cycling” exist in the historical building where our museum originated.
Built in 1887 as a county jail, the structure was considered state-of-the-art for its day! It boasted impressively laid limestone, long windows and elegant metal-work.
Although certain features still mark this space as an old jail (iron bars and hanging chains) the building has now been completely repurposed to modern art galleries.
The first floor no longer houses a jailer and his family, but a rotating exhibition of artifacts from a variety of Asian cultures.
Bright rooms upstairs, which once housed metal cells and frontier criminals, now host a rotation of contemporary Texas artists (many of whom create works inspired by the original use of the space through themes of isolation, the loss of freedom, and the passing of time).
Even the metal cells of the jail would enjoy a new life as the building evolved to an artistic purpose. The detailed lattice-work of the metal was not discarded as rooms were converted to galleries. While it is common for the craftsmanship of a utilitarian, mundane object to go unnoticed- the first director of our museum had an inspired new plan for its use! This lovely lattice was repurposed as a fence surrounding a courtyard of bronze and marble sculpture.
Each day, museum visitors walk and observe this outdoor exhibit with no idea of the history that surrounds them! (Personally, I do quietly enjoy the irony of a space once previously occupied by the “unrefined”..now visited and admired by those seeking a bit of culture and “refinement.”)
The evolution and story of our old jail building is so eccentric and unique. It allows for many surprises in tour programs, and inspires wonderful dialog about learning from the past to create a more positive and beautiful future!
Jewellee Kuenstler, THC&P Coordinator
