Plastic Fantastic? exhibition opens at Wakefield Museum
Tuesday, July 28, 2026
A new exhibition showcasing Wakefield Council’s remarkable collection of colourful mid-20th century plastic homewares is now open.
The exhibition, called ‘Plastic Fantastic?’, runs until 19 June 2027.
“Our museum collection has an impressive range of fun and surprising plastic objects. In this exhibition, the collection is creatively displayed in recreated room scenes from 20th century homes.
“The kitchen, living room and dressing area displays are packed full of quirky and nostalgic plastic objects in a rainbow of vibrant colours and patterns.
“All the family will spot something they recognise and remember, from retro tech and toys to the latest viral trends.
“I hope lots of people visit the exhibition to find out more about plastic’s place in our homes and lives.”
Cllr Lukasz Borcz
Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport
The exhibition is accessible, hands on and interactive. Supported by an Access to Exhibitions Grant from The Exhibitions Group, it includes tactile replicas and audio descriptions.
Local artist Ruth Fones has created 3D printed replicas of key objects using a sustainable bio-plastic made from plant protein. She worked with members of Wakefield District Sight Aid's Art Beyond Vision group to develop the resources.
These resources will allow more visitors to explore and engage with the exhibition, using touch, sound and sight.
Plastic transformed 20th century life. Lightweight, affordable and durable, it quickly became part of almost every home. But plastic can also be harmful to our planet. Today, many people are looking at ways to reduce, reuse and recycle plastic, while scientists explore alternative materials.
Visitors to the exhibition can discover the development of plastics, think about the role of plastics in everyday life, and consider their effect on the environment.
The public can find out how plastic recycling is managed and turned into new products in the Wakefield district by watching the special exhibition film, produced in partnership with waste management company Biffa.
There will be opportunities to explore creative ideas to give leftover plastic a second life. Inspired by the Wakefield Museums and Castles Youth Forum, who collected their waste plastic and turned their old toys, bottle tops and packaging into unique new artworks to display in the exhibition.
Visitors can also have a go at identifying and sorting different types of plastic packaging and learn which plastics can be recycled.
Opening hours and visitor information can be found at:
Plastic Fantastic? - Wakefield Museums and Castles
Wakefield Museum - Wakefield Museums and Castles
This exhibition is supported by The Exhibitions Group.