I was never a huge Harry Potter fan. Probably because my sisters obsessed over it, so it was no surprise that I was not happy that I was being dragged to the Powerhouse for an exhibit on the blockbuster films. However, upon arriving to the Powerhouse and seeing a flying car, little five-year-old Sophie was enamored and quickly enthusiastic.
I wandered away from my parents and siblings – losing myself in the magical exhibits all around me. Although I did not understand or recognise half the references on display, I was completely in awe of the exhibition.
Those that may be shocked at my disdain for Harry Potter as a small child, fear not! I grew older (and wiser) and developed a stronger appreciation for Harry Potter and from there – many different literary worlds both fictitious and real.
Historical worlds caught my attention. Regency England, Ancient Greece, The Trojan War, Henry VIII are all examples of different worlds that sparked my interest. Just like the small child I once was, I immersed myself in all these worlds which eventually inspired me to apply for Work Experience at the Powerhouse.
In my short three days at the Museum, I have experienced and observed more magic than a Harry Potter Exhibition could ever provide!
This was such an interesting work experience placement, and I learned a lot both front-of-house, and behind the scenes! From the excitement of children playing Minecraft in the Lab, to seeing fully grown adults stare in awe at the Boulton and Watt! From being guided through the basement by Damian the Curator, to exploring the archives through a task we were asked to complete – myself and my fellow work experience students Sienna and Eleni, enjoyed it all.
Seeing all the work that goes on behind the scenes has been invaluable and each experience here has shown me that Museums really are – magic in the making.
Sophie, Work Experience Student
* Header image: Ford Anglia 105E Deluxe sedan – Harry Potter Flying Car. Published via Wikimedia under the Creative Commons 2.0 License.