MATRES: What is it?

The Minimuseum Atrium of the Eras (MATRES) is a private, non-profit project/essay of a small online museum. However, its virtual nature is just the first step, as the ultimate goal is to occupy a physical space as well.

The purpose of MATRES is best summarized in its slogan, “rescue and preservation of memories.” It aims to offer antique enthusiasts, collectors, students in various design and creative fields, and the general public an opportunity to appreciate objects that have withstood the test of time.

Vision

As a digital museum, MATRES strives to reach its audience through social media platforms and related websites. Its primary aim is to become a leading reference point for the preservation and dissemination of knowledge about our history’s evolution in the face of industrial and social development.

MATRES: Rescue and Preservation of Memories through Time and History

The evolution of objects over time is closely intertwined with the ever-changing social and economic landscape. These transformations present new challenges in product design and development, including factors like manufacturing techniques, material selection, colors, shapes, and functions. These elements are essential for stimulating reflections and nurturing the growth of new ideas.

Engaging in dialogue and debate about past solutions offers fresh perspectives for the present and future. Hence, MATRES stands on the pillars of historical and cultural recovery, the preservation of artifacts, the memories encapsulated within them, and the diversity of styles and eras they represent.

The choice of the name MATRES was not arbitrary. It is an acronym derived from “minimuseum Atrium of the Eras,” constructed from three interpretations of the term “atrium.” Here’s a brief summary of each concept, which will be explored further in future texts:

1. Architectural: Referring to the space of the atrium—a common environment in ancient constructions—where people gathered and socialized. The atrium symbolizes a transitional and connecting space between different areas of a building. This essence aligns with MATRES’ objective of connecting different eras and styles through the preservation of objects and memories.
2. Religious: Drawing from the function of the atrium in churches, where it served as an access point to the temple and a place of preparation for Mass. The religious aspect of the acronym relates to the ideas of welcoming, caring, and cherishing cultural histories and memories as a form of celebration and communion among individuals.
3. Physiological: Reflecting the role of the heart’s atria as transitional spaces between the external and internal environment. They enable the entry and exit of blood, aid in maintaining blood pressure, and facilitate the efficient pumping of the heart. This association with the heart reinforces MATRES’ values of care, guardianship, and preservation of the pieces it holds.

Moreover, there is a profound and audacious attempt to transform the very meaning of the word “MATRES,” which, in Latin, signifies “mothers.” It signifies that the displayed pieces are treated with the same respect and care as a mother has for her child.

About the Artifact Descriptions

The descriptions and originality of the artifacts are based on the creator’s empirical knowledge. This knowledge has been acquired over time through experiences with collectors, online forums, fairs, websites, books, catalogs, and antique shops.

Collecting information about the pieces within a collection poses significant challenges, particularly regarding technical data. Historical and technical information is not always readily available in physical or digital formats.

Consequently, the search for information often relies on shared experiences among collectors within specific niches and mining data from diverse sources. This approach forms the contextual narrative and technical descriptions of each object. However, it’s crucial to recognize that the narratives presented about MATRES’ artifacts are not considered absolute truths and, like any epistemic construction, can be complemented, questioned, or refuted. Any information that can enhance the description of the collection’s pieces is warmly welcomed.If you possess information about any item in the MATRES collection and wish to contribute, please feel free to reach out to us at minimuseumatres@gmail.com or via Instagram @minimuseumatres. Your contributions will be highly valued and will enrich the collective knowledge surrounding these acquisitions.

The social contribution of the MATRES project: 

1. Filter and share information using both empirical and academic knowledge.
2. Encourage conversations and debates among those who care about preserving cultural heritage and uncovering historical stories.
3. Take steps to collect food and resources for organizations that help vulnerable communities.

Founder of MATRES

Alexandre Rodrigues Ferreira, originally from Cachoeira do Sul, is the son of Paulo Felipe Ferreira and Guiomar Rodrigues Ferreira. Since his adolescence, he has been living in Santa Maria, RS, a city he considers his home along with his family. He holds a degree in Industrial Design (now Product Design) and has also obtained a master’s and a doctoral degree in Production Engineering, with specialization in Ergonomics. Alexandre is a lifelong learner and a collector enthusiast. For over 15 years, he has been dedicated to the rescue and preservation of memories through the conservation of collectible and historical objects.