A NEW exhibition is being launched at the DIG attraction in York, which has teamed up with local history enthusiasts for the event.

Curating an exhibition can be seen as an exclusive privilege reserved for museum professionals. However, thanks to an innovative and collaborative approach by York Archaeological Trust, the owners and operators of DIG, this is no longer the case at their new exhibition - YourDIG: Converge.

Jen Jackson, community engagement manager at York Archaeological Trust, said: “YourDIG: Converge pulls together a variety of work undertaken by the Converge group, such as creative writings, artwork and even the interpretation of objects on display to form a completely unique approach to exploring the archaeology of our historic city.”

Converge, a partnership between York St John University and mental health service providers in York, have worked with experts from the Trust to devise, develop and curate their own exhibition space within DIG.

“2018 marks 10 years of Converge and this is a perfect way to mark it; using the past to create something new that celebrates the present,” Matt Harper Hardcastle, Converge theatre tutor said.

“It has been a truly collaborative process, not just between Converge and York Archaeological Trust, but between our different students; creating an exciting melting pot of ideas from our students in creative writing, music and theatre, as well as the Discover Museums students."

This collaborative approach has produced an exhibition with a unique voice and perspective on the heritage of York.

Utilising established museum practices as well as audio-visual displays, YourDIG: Converge helps visitors uncover a new side to history.

Jane Stockdale, Discover Museums tutor, added: "The Discover Museums course offered by Converge gave students the opportunity to visit many different museums around the city, get behind-the-scenes and learn some of the techniques of museum creation. Working alongside students from other Converge courses, the group has created an inspiring and creative interpretation of the story of Union Terrace."

YourDIG: Converge opens to the public today, September 21 at DIG: An Archaeological Adventure, St Saviour’s Church, St Saviourgate, and is free to enter.