Lost tombs of Peru exhibition

AN exhibition of ancient relics from Peru, collected by a former Warrington man, has proved so popular it has been retained for a further month at the town’s museum.
“Mr Smithies and the lost tombs of Peru” now runs until March 21.
A number of additional features have been added – including an opportunity for museum visitors to get involved.
New, fun, workshops give people the opportunity to create their own “Peruvian” textiles and there will be talks by the exhibition curator and, on the subject of archaeology in Peru, by author Jane Feltham.
Mr Smithies was assistant manager of a cotton mill in Warrington, but was also an enthusiastic amateur archaeologist.
He explored ancient burial grounds and caves while working in Peru between 1896 and 1927 and made many remarkable finds – including two mummies.
The objects reveal a lot about what life would have been like, and reveals how cultures such as the Incas flourished in spite of earthquakes, tidal waves and droughts.
Also in the exhibition are rare textiles, metalwork and fine pottery, with hands-on interactive displays.
Workshops and talks take place on:
Saturday, January 17, 10am-4pm Weaving workshop, with experienced weaver and textile experts who have been researching Peruvian textiles.
Saturday, January 24, 10.30am: Walk and talk around the exhibition with curator Craig Sherwood.
Saturday, February 7, 11.30am: A talk with author Jane Feltham, with special reference to Mr Smithies’ collection.
Saturday, February 21, 10.30am-3.30pm: Textile workshop, with a chance to try out various techniques and processes.
All the activities are free, but places should be booked for the workshops, by calling 01925 442399.
Pictured: part of the “Lost tombs of Peru” exhibition.