Black Cat Café Collection

In 2001, Museum Victoria acquired a collection of over 250 items from the recently closed Brunswick Street icon The Black Cat Café, which had been operating since 1982. It was one of the first establishments catering to the young, arty, alternative set, and was a significant contributor to the social, cultural and demographic changes that made Brunswick Street what it is today.

This project seeks to document the collection as well as the history of the café, both from the view of the owners and of the many patrons that came through its doors.

The project will require the student/researcher to spend time with the objects at Melbourne Museum, where a desk will be provided for their use. The student/researcher will have access to the collection, the museum’s database and museum library. The student/researcher will be expected to use the resources of other relevant research facilities, such as the State Library of Victoria, and make contact with any relevant individuals or organisations.

Information on the objects will be entered into the collection database where relevant. There will also be the opportunity to write narratives related to the café and its owners and patrons.

The student will submit a report outlining research findings, source bibliography, documentation of experts and organisations contacted and information provided, and copies of related articles, images, websites, etc as well as recommendations for future use and interpretation of the object.

The student/researcher should be undertaking or have completed a relevant degree in history, museum studies/art curatorship, or related heritage studies; have some research experience and a desire to engage with material culture.