All that glitters … is silver in new Amazement Square exhibit

By Susan Pugh

Published: July 15, 2008

Silver has a history of dazzling man-and-womankind. Now, Amazement Square has a new exhibit about the precious metal aimed at doing the same for children.

The exhibit, called Discover Silver, explores the beauty, artistry, creation, usage and significance of silver. The exhibit uses panels and displays, video and interactive features to tell silver’s story.

The very word silver has come to connote luxury, likely a result of its usage through the ages for such things as jewelry and silver service. Meanwhile the element’s properties, such as super conductivity, have led to practical uses in areas ranging from electronics to medicine.

The exhibit comes to Lynchburg on long-term loan, courtesy of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond through its program to share the arts and education.

“I am so happy that others may enjoy this exhibition as much as we have over the years,” said Alex Nyerges, VMFA director.

Amazement Square is happy, too, according to Rebecca Grawl, exhibit and program coordinator.

The Lynchburg museum has added “the Amazement Square touch,” she said.

That means even more interactive features. One interactive feature is an 18th century silversmith’s shop similar to the one made famous by patriot Paul Revere. Visitors can, among other things, use an anvil and other tools of the trade, and work at a smith’s bench.

Amazement Square has added its own touch in other ways. The exhibit will include pieces of silver, such as a Tiffany ewer, from Lynchburg collections. Grawl said some fascinating and fine pieces from all over the country and world have ended up in local collections.

Plus, the city itself was home to some successful silversmiths during the 19th century, so some pieces made in local shops are on display. Some of the city’s silversmiths were Silverthorn, Williams and Victor, and Truslow.

The Discover Silver exhibit will be on display for a year.