Discovering the Terracotta Warriors:
My Journey with National Museums Liverpool
As someone deeply passionate about cultural history and archaeological wonders, my recent work with National Museums Liverpool on the Terracotta Warriors exhibition was nothing short of transformative. This exhibition, which highlighted one of the world's most significant archaeological discoveries, brought to life the fascinating world of ancient China, inviting visitors to explore a time shrouded in mystery.
For over 2,000 years, the life-sized terracotta warriors stood guard over the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China's First Emperor. Their discovery in 1974 opened a window into a lost empire, revealing stories of power, conflict, and the quest for immortality. The exhibition spanned nearly a millennium of Chinese history, showcasing monumental statues and a wealth of artefacts from the era, many of which were displayed for the very first time in the UK.
Among the treasure trove of exhibits were remarkable items excavated from the Imperial Mausoleum and surrounding tombs in Shaanxi Province—pieces that reflect the Emperor's elaborate preparations for the afterlife and offer insights into daily life in ancient China. This rich tapestry of history captivated our audience, drawing visitors from all walks of life, eager to understand how these ancient relics contributed to the narrative of human civilization.
As the Marketing Manager for this project, I was proud to achieve significant objectives that contributed to its success. Notably, 35% of the visits to the exhibition came from people outside of Merseyside, demonstrating the exhibition's wide-reaching appeal. Additionally, the exhibition contributed an impressive £78 million to the Merseyside economy, generating 208,220 staying visits to Liverpool during its run at the World Museum. These figures underscore the exhibition's impact and highlight the importance of cultural events in enriching local economies.
The collaboration between National Museums Liverpool the Shaanxi Provincial Cultural Relics Bureau and the Shaanxi History Museum was pivotal in bringing this exhibition to fruition. It was not just an exhibition; it was a celebration of cultural exchange, with Liverpool embracing its Far East connections through the special China Dream season.
As the exhibition unfolded, it became clear that these artefacts were more than just relics; they were storytellers, each piece whispering tales of a bygone era, and it was a privilege to be part of this journey. I look forward to continuing my work in this field, exploring more ways to connect audiences with the rich narratives of our shared human history.