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Published on July 28th, 2026
•A new exhibition titled Plastic Fantastic? has opened at Wakefield Museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of colourful, mid-20th century plastic items. This exhibition delves into Britain's deep-seated love affair with plastic, featuring everything from Bakelite televisions to Barbie dolls and retro kitchenware. Visitors can explore how plastic has shaped our homes, lifestyles, and even our environment.
Exploring Plastic's Role in Our Lives
The Plastic Fantastic? exhibition offers a unique opportunity for visitors to admire a variety of quirky and nostalgic plastic objects displayed in recreated room settings from the 20th century. These displays include a kitchen, living room, and dressing area, all bursting with vibrant colours and patterns.
According to Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport,
“Our museum collection has an impressive range of fun and surprising plastic objects.”
His hope is that families will find something familiar in the exhibition, whether it's retro technology or trendy toys.
Interactive Learning and Accessibility
This exhibition is designed to be accessible and engaging for all visitors. Supported by an Access to Exhibitions Grant from The Exhibitions Group, it features tactile replicas and audio descriptions to enhance the experience. Local artist Ruth Fones has contributed by creating 3D printed replicas of key objects using a sustainable bio-plastic made from plant protein. These replicas were developed in collaboration with members of Wakefield District Sight Aid's Art Beyond Vision group, allowing individuals with visual impairments to explore the exhibition through touch and sound.
The Impact of Plastic
Plastic transformed life in the 20th century. Its lightweight, affordable, and durable nature made it a staple in nearly every household. However, plastic also poses significant environmental challenges. The exhibition encourages visitors to reflect on both the benefits and drawbacks of plastic in today's world. It highlights ongoing efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastic and showcases scientists' work in finding alternative materials. As part of the exhibition, attendees can watch a film detailing how plastic recycling is managed in the Wakefield district, produced in partnership with waste management company Biffa. This film provides insights into how plastic can be turned into new products, shedding light on the importance of recycling in the community.
Creative Recycling Initiatives
The exhibition also offers creative opportunities for visitors to think about giving leftover plastic a second life. Inspired by the Wakefield Museums and Castles Youth Forum, who collected waste plastic to create unique artworks, visitors can see how everyday items like toys, bottle tops, and packaging can be transformed into something new and beautiful. This initiative encourages a hands-on approach to recycling, allowing individuals to identify and sort different types of plastic packaging while learning about what can and cannot be recycled.
Exhibition Details
The Plastic Fantastic? exhibition is open now and will run until 19 June 2027, making it an excellent opportunity for families and individuals to visit over the coming months. The exhibition aims to educate and inspire visitors about the role of plastic in their lives and the environment, urging everyone to reconsider their plastic use and recycling habits.
