The Eternity gallery is a glimpse into Australia's past, present and future through the lives, emotions and experiences of its people. More than 1.6 billion people have lived in Australia, 32 million of them since 1788. Personal stories make an important contribution to our history. Eternity opens a window onto some of them and encourages each of us to consider the significance of our own lives and stories.
In a radical departure from the usual categories of museums, Eternity is based on 10 themes that speak directly to people's real experiences. These themes of Joy, Hope, Passion, Mystery, Thrill, Loneliness, Fear, Devotion, Separation and Chance provide a new angle on Australian history. Each theme features five stories, each anchored by one significant object. Innovative multimedia techniques are used to tell the wider story.
Eternity shows that we all have a story to tell.
Take Arthur Stace, 'Mr Eternity'. At least 50 times a day for 30 years he wrote the word 'Eternity' in chalk on the streets of Sydney. His simple, enduring message can still make people stop, think and feel.
Eternity is about happiness and hedonism and what makes Australians laugh, cry or have the courage to turn the other cheek. It shows how people deal with experiences such as war, discrimination, personal tragedy or isolation. Stories range from losing a loved one, facing death every day, spiritual devotion, sporting triumph, missing one's homeland and appreciating the little things in life.
Share the emotion as the selected stories unfold. Laugh. Feel fear. Fall in love. Take a chance.
An everlasting story in chalk.
The Eternity gallery's name comes from the fascinating story of Arthur Stace, a reformed alcoholic who for 35 years was inspired to write the word 'Eternity' in perfect copperplate in chalk on the streets of Sydney. Many people who lived in Sydney between 1932 and 1967, and those who visited, would have seen the word written on footpaths. It was a mystery for years, until 1956 when it was revealed to be the work of Arthur Stace. He wrote 'Eternity' over half a million times.