Colin Mackenzie is the senior curator of early Chinese art at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Here, McKenzie talks about the progress of renovations in the Chinese galleries. By Laura Spencer
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/national/local-national-890147.mp3
Kansas City, MO – McKenzie says some of the Chinese Art gallery changes will already be noticeable, but others will be on display in May 2010.
The first phase of the updates includes the main Chinese gallery, with a focus on art from 2nd and 3rd century tombs, and the temple room. McKenzie says the museum will be "bringing out objects that haven't been on display for many years, or have never been on display."
The two galleries adjacent to the main Chinese gallery will present the museum's collection of ancient Chinese bronzes, architectural elements, and the Han Dynasty house, as well as new acquisitions. McKenzie says, "You get the sense of the awe that the ancient Chinese felt for the spirit world...and their engagement with luxury."
The museum also has long-range plans for a total reinstallation of the galleries.