New Zealand Museum Shows Rare Collection of Bob Marley Photographs

The Waikato Museum in Hamilton, New Zealand, plans a tribute to Jamaica’s reggae legend and social activist Bob Marley from December 17, 2016 to April 2, 2017. The exhibit will feature a rare collection of photographs featuring the international music star that were commissioned by the Marley estate and the music label Island Records. The collection, which was purchased for Gisborne’s Tairawhiti Museum, will form part of the Marley tribute. Marley is considered one of the most influential musicians in history. According to the director of the Waikato Museum, Cherie Meecham, the lyrics and rhythm of Marley’s songs have resonated with people since the 1960s, and the musician was integral in embedding reggae into New Zealand’s culture. People in New Zealand have always embraced reggae and Marley, and the exhibit celebrates and recognizes his legacy as “a leader whose message of dignity, tolerance and racial unity continues to influence generations,” she said. Bob Marley was born on February 6, 1945, and shares his birthday with Waitangi Day, which marks the signing of the Waitangi Treaty in 1840. This treaty made New Zealand part of the British Empire, guaranteed Maori people rights to their land, and gave them the rights of British subjects.