Stamp QuestTM — an interactive exhibition for budding young collectors!Hull, Quebec, February 19, 1999 — The Canadian Postal Museum (located at the Canadian Museum of Civilization) opens a brand-new permanent exhibition entitled Stamp QuestTM on February 25, 1999. This dynamic, interactive exhibition is the first permanent exhibition devoted to philately in Canada. Stamp Quest is aimed especially at budding young collectors between 7 and 12 years of age. It provides an introduction to the world of stamp-collecting and is intended to inspire kids to start collections of their own.
Presenting two hundred Canadian and foreign stamps, Stamp Quest is sure to appeal to the curiosity of young visitors. After all, where else can they see Jacques Cartier rubbing shoulders with John F. Kennedy, Dracula, Sherlock Holmes, Wayne Gretzky, the Spice Girls, Tintin and Superman?
Stamp Quest's principal characteristic — and its appeal — is its interactive approach. By playing games, handling the tools of the trade such as magnifying glasses and catalogues, studying designs of stamps, listening to recordings and drawing stamps, budding collectors of all ages will learn more about the basics of creating their own collections. Volunteers will also be on hand to guide visitors in their learning experience and to lead workshops.
Stamp Quest recounts the glorious history of the postage stamp and explains how, 150 years after its conception by Sir Rowland Hill, collecting stamps has grown to become the most popular hobby in the world. Visitors will learn, too, that there are different types of collections, and kids will be able to draw inspiration from the private collections on exhibit. A reading nook will provide reference materials for learning more on the subject and on collectors' clubs.
One of the most unusual items in the exhibition is a musical stamp: this record-shaped stamp from the kingdom of Bhutan plays a Bhutanese folk song! Two other artifacts are equally amazing: a table and chair completely papered with 2,133 stamps.
From March to May 1999 and starting again in the fall, a school programme will draw students into a veritable philatelic frenzy. A wide range of educational activities has been organized, where children's knowledge and artistic skills will be challenged by games, presentations and discussions designed for Grades 4 to 6 and available at a minimal cost. Information: (819) 776-7014.
To begin their collection, young visitors will also have a chance to win the Stamp Quest collector's kit, courtesy of Canada Post — all they need to do is participate in the competition for best stamp design. A draw will be held each month.
The Stamp Quest exhibition and school programme has been made possible through a generous financial donation from Canada Post.
Information (media):
Media Relations Officer: (819) 776-7169
Senior Media Relations Officer: (819) 776-7167
Fax: (819) 776-7187
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