Phase Two Mine Experience and Interior Exhibit Refresh
We have been working away on developing a Conceptual Exhibition & Interpretation Plan for our Renewal Project Phase II: Mine Experience
Beginning in the fall of 2020, we hired Double Dare Design to tackle this interpretive and exhibition planning step of our Renewal Project Phase II. We are fortunate to be working with this passionate team of professionals, including Melanie Greenaway and Marjolaine Brabander of Double Dare, Noelle Chorney of Tall Order Communications, and Rosslander Chad McCallum of One by One Design Co.
Although we had planned for many in-person meetings, tours of the site, stakeholder creative workshops, and community engagement sessions, we were only able to host the on-site tour of the property before we had to move the planning process entirely online. With community stakeholders tuning in from as far away as New Zealand as well as across Canada, we were so happy to still be able to include so many subject matter experts and the assistance of our new Roger Terhune Geology Club.
Interpretive Goals
Integrate a series of competing spatial needs and interrelationships between the entry lobby (atrium), new mining experience, and J.D. McDonald Hall.
Welcome visitors to Rossland and area and help them plan their visit.
Share the rich history of Rossland and area in a way that helps visitors understand the modern town, and encourage them to reflect on their own place in history.
Create a thematic framework that supports rotation of artifact collection and changing exhibits and the development of educational programs and digital experiences.
Create an immersive experience that inspires visitors to suspend their disbelief and place themselves in the shoes of an early 20th century hard-rock gold miner.
We are so excited to share the full package with everyone here:
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Key Messages
The unique geological context of Rossland and area, both above ground and below, influenced its development and ensures its continued existence today
Rossland sits within the unceded təmxʷúlaʔxʷ (homeland) of the Sinixt people. RMDC is committed to reconciliation with the Sinixt Nation and is actively working with Sinixt representatives to accurately share their story.
Settler history in the area began in earnest with the discovery of gold. In the beginning, mining was the primary industry and the reason the “Golden City” of Rossland was founded.
Industry in the area brought people from many nations to the community, bringing many perspectives and prompting many innovations and “firsts.”
Because of its isolated location, Rossland was and continues to be a self-sustaining community with strong community spirit.
The Rossland mines have since closed, and the community has transitioned into a recreation and culture hub that takes pride in its history.
Here are six key exhibition concepts to give a better idea of what to expect in a renewed Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre!
Possible Floor Plan
Lifestyle Panel Design Example
“Working with the fabulous staff of the Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre has been really exciting. They are committed to making a contemporary museum that addresses settler histories and industrial heritage in a respectful, inclusive manner. The future mine experience will be unlike anything in the region. It will blend hands-on, interactive experiences with historical artifacts and immersive environments for an unforgettable multi-sensory adventure. ”
We continue to work away on our Architectural Designs with Meiklejohn Architectural Design Studios and actively fundraising for the project as we expect to go to construction within the next year!
Architectural Concept Design
