Ever heard of Empress Joséphine Bonaparte? The wife to Napolean was a bit of a botanical revolutionary for her time, helping welcome in some of 19th century Europe’s most exciting scientific discoveries—and WA Maritime Museum has just scored the global debut of an incredible exhibition all about her.
An immersive light, sound and visual ode to one of history’s most intriguing women, Empress Joséphine's Garden explores the fascinating life of the multi-hyphenate across 360-degree lightscapes—plus a slew of events—and we’ve got the scoop on how to make the most of the exhibition while it’s here.
Scope The Installation
WA Maritime Museum has pulled out all the stops with the debut of Empress Joséphine's Garden. Putting the socialite and botanist under the microscope, step into Josephine’s life through digital projections, towering floral installations, epic narration and curated performances with a pop-up bar on Friday nights.
With three rooms across the exhibit—explore the exciting scientific developments she helped discover in the 19th century, sit among life-sized installations of her favourite flora, and wander through 360-degree projections of her expansive and exotic gardens at Chateau de Malmaison.
The Details
What: Empress Joséphine's Garden
Where: WA Maritime Museum, Victoria Quay Road, Fremantle
When: Until 11 May
Tickets: From $15, available here.
Head To These Events
Joséphine’s Garden: Le Bar
Transport yourself to 19th-century France each Friday night until 11 April with Joséphine’s Garden: Le Bar. Each week will see a new French-infused local act entertaining your crew, alongside after-hours access to the exhibit and seasonal bites and bubbles.
Between small plates of French cheeses and vegetarian terrines, take a wander through the digital garden without the daytime crowds, before trying your hand at still-life drawing in the Sketching Salon.
The Details
What: Joséphine’s Garden: Le Bar
Where: WA Maritime Museum, Victoria Quay Road, Fremantle
When: Fridays from 6pm - 8.30pm until 11 April
Tickets: From $25, available here.
Josephiné's Garden High Tea
Get even more of a French fix with all things sweet, savoury and bubbly at at Josephine's Garden High Tea on the weekends. Plus with Mother’s Day coming up, it'll be just the thing to put you into the good books.
The Details
What: Joséphine's Garden High Tea
Where: WA Maritime Museum, Victoria Quay Road, Fremantle
When: Weekends until 11 May
Tickets: From $50, available here.
Take a wander through Empress Joséphine's Garden before it closes on 11 May 2025. Find out more here.
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Images: Supplied.