Exhibition: 'The Moth is the Museum's Greatest Enemy'
The article discusses the role of Verena Reitz in pest control at the Deutsches Museum, highlighting the damage that pests like moths can cause to valuable collections over the past century.
Verena Reitz, a trained precision mechanic, plays a crucial role in pest control at the Deutsches Museum, where she has worked for nearly 20 years. Through her meticulous attention to detail, she addresses the pressing issue of pests such as moths, beetles, worms, and even mice that threaten the museum's invaluable collections. In her capacity, she not only tackles these pests but also educates visitors on the importance of preserving the museum's exhibits from these tiny intruders.
The Deutsches Museum, celebrating its centenary, attracts over a million visitors annually, showcasing significant technological inventions. The article also emphasizes how Reitz's work is vital to maintaining the integrity of these displays, as pests can cause irreparable harm to historical artifacts. Through her detective-like work, Reitz represents a behind-the-scenes hero in the effort to sustain the museum's legacy and ensure a rich experience for visitors.
With insights from an interview conducted by Martina Scherf, the article underscores the dual challenge of exhibiting technological innovations while simultaneously protecting them from ecological threats. As the museum approaches its 100-year milestone, Reitzβs narrative serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked labor that goes into curating and preserving cultural and scientific heritage against all odds.