From the moment she parted ways with her childhood toys at a local market, Claudia Chan Shaw realised the gravity of her mistake, sparking a relentless pursuit to reclaim and preserve the cherished relics of her past.

In this thought-provoking talk, Claudia examines the world of collecting and shares her personal odyssey, gathering toys that reminded her of childhood and the TV shows she loved growing up.

Join her as she navigates the labyrinth of nostalgia and obsession, reminding us that sometimes, the most cherished treasures are those that stir the deepest memories.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Claudia Chan Shaw has a multi-faceted career as a television and radio presenter, author, fashion designer, curator, artist and collector. She is co-host of television program, Antiques DownUnder and was co-host on ABC TV’s popular program, Collectors. Her book Collectomania: From objects of desire to magnificent obsession celebrates the world of collecting. She is co-designer and director for acclaimed Australian fashion label, Vivian Chan Shaw, with the designs represented in the permanent collection of the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney. Claudia was the inaugural curator of the City of Sydney’s Chinese New Year Festival and designed large scale installations for Lunar New Year celebrations (2016 – 2021). Her artwork has featured in solo and groups shows, the Head On Photo Festival, GLOW Festival at HOTA, Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, and Sydney Lunar Festival.

Ticket includes one beverage on arrival. No entry to Australian Toys 1880–1965

Limited parking available on-site.

Wheelchair accessible.

Banner image detail: Claudia Chan Shaw with robots

Playful Pursuits: A toy collector's world - a talk by Claudia Chan Shaw

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