Protecting the Movies: A Life Props, Costumes & Collecting

What happens to the objects left behind when a movie or television production ends?

For decades, costumes, props, artwork, and other production materials were often discarded, reused, forgotten, or simply sent home with members of the crew. Today, many of those same objects are fiercely sought after by collectors, museums, and archives.

Join movie and television memorabilia specialist Mark Short for a behind-the-scenes journey into the world of prop collecting and preservation. Beginning with his early days collecting in England, Mark will trace a career that has taken him from science-fiction conventions and auction rooms to television appearances, international collecting adventures, and a lifetime spent tracking down pieces of entertainment history.

Along the way, Mark will share stories about how the hobby has changed, why screen-used objects have become valuable cultural artifacts, and what it means to serve as a temporary caretaker for pieces tied to the films and television shows people love.

Mark will also bring a selection of original props and costumes from his collection for guests to see.

Whether you’re a lifelong collector, a film buff, or simply fascinated by the stories objects can carry, this program offers a rare look at the preservation of pop culture and the people who make sure those stories survive.