Creating an impression : a case study to understand the significance of operational objects through letterpress printing at a science and technology museum in Aotearoa New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Master of Arts, Master of Arts in Museum Studies at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand
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Date
2023
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Massey University
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Abstract
Operation is a method of object activation commonly applied to science, technology and industrial design objects within museums and heritage institutions. Object operation is recognised as a valuable way to connect objects to communities, applied through visitor programming, object research, and community co-production in the creation of tangible and intangible heritage. However, the value arising from objects’ operation has been found often not to be reflected in the understanding of the significance of the object being operated. This thesis proposes that to understand the full value of object activation through operation, the effect of operation on the object must be understood. There is a paucity of pertinent literature addressing operational objects’ activation within science and technology museums that explores how operation reflects the understanding of objects value. At the heart of this qualitative research is the examination of a single object, a non-accessioned Heidelberg KSD Cylinder letterpress printing press, operated at the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT). The case study combines Material Culture Studies and Actor Network Theory to reveal a framework that supports a nuanced understanding of the Press’ role and value. The theoretical framework is supported by a diverse range of research methods including in-depth interviews, archival research, and participant observation including video recordings and imagery into the operation of the Press. Research which observes and documents the operation of the Press is conducted during the Press’ utilisation within a significant project lead by artist and MOTAT team member, Makyla Curtis, re-enacting William Colenso’s hand-setting of te Tiriti o Waitangi (1840). This research argues that the Press is a significant object influenced by a complex and fluid web of networks. Given the dissonance between the Press and retention of contexts of meaning, the Press is not understood or valued because its relationships are not recognised. Unless the Press is acknowledged as part of a complex network, it cannot be fully activated.
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