A sign reminding visitors of precautionary measures is seen at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra, Australia, June 2, 2020. The National Museum of Australia and the National Gallery of Australia reopened on Tuesday, more than two months after they closed amid concern of COVID-19. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua)
CANBERRA, June 2 (Xinhua) -- The National Museum of Australia and the National Gallery of Australia reopened on Tuesday, more than two months after they closed amid concern of COVID-19.
The move followed a further ease of coronavirus restrictions by the Australian Capital Territory government last Friday.
"We are excited to be able to lift the covers off the art and once again share our collection and exhibitions with everyone," said National Gallery Director Nick Mitzevich.
"Art has been a salvation for many people in these uncertain times and we know immersion in art and culture will play an important role in bringing our local and national community back together," he said. "I am delighted the National Gallery will again be open to the Australian public to provide inspiration, joy and the opportunity for reflection."
Safety measures are taken which include timed entry, a 20-person limit in galleries, sanitizer stations throughout the building, additional cleaning and the closure of small exhibition spaces.
Visitors to the National Gallery will be asked to pre-register and provide their contact number, which will be used should contact tracing be required.
Similar social-distancing restrictions are imposed by the National Museum as well.
"With the COVID-19 pandemic still amongst us, the health and safety of our visitors and staff remain a priority," said National Museum director Mathew Trinca in a statement.
"The power of ideas, objects and history to nourish our lives and help us make sense of our experiences underlies the work of the Museum and we look forward to re-connecting with you in person and sharing our collection and exhibitions," he said.
The National Museum of Australia will showcase an exhibition about the landing of research vessel, the Endeavor, at east coast of Australia by Captain James Cook 250 years ago. It was scheduled to open in April, before lockdown was announced.
The exhibition was originally supposed to finish on October 11, but according to the Canberra Times, the museum might extend it.
The National Library of Australia will open on Wednesday for pre-booked ticketed access. Access is limited to 20 readers per session, and there are two sessions per day between Monday and Friday.
