About the collection

ROBOTS is a collection of robots, cyborgs and androids on loan from the Museum of Movie Magic in Scotland. The museum is one of Europe’s largest privately owned collections of movie props and costumes.

This eclectic collection generally consists of anything to do with robots: including props used onscreen, high-end replicas, personal robots, toys and sculptures. It’s curated by Don Jack, whose interest in science fiction and collecting began quite by chance.

Don is creative director and founder of Ideas, a creative consultancy working in the tourism, leisure and entertainment sectors. Some years ago, Ideas was invited to create a bold vision for a £20m visitor attraction, indoor ski centre and water park. His design team suggested a science fiction component, designed to explore UFO sightings and to highlight the influence of science fiction on our everyday lives.

The client welcomed the concept, so Don set about sourcing material for the exhibition.

Soon, film companies began to offer help, encouragement and more items for display. Costumes that had been used onscreen joined the collection – and Don was irrevocably hooked.

The Robot collection has grown since then, with additional content coming in from museums, leading auction houses, film studio auctions, TV prop departments, costumiers, prop makers and private individuals.

The collection has value beyond its popularity with visitors. “It’s used by museums and other institutions for anything from educational, commentary and reporting purposes to research and scholarships,” says Don.

“But we know people find our collections totally fascinating. Folks just love to see these items, particularly the iconic pieces.”

Robot has become a labour of love, and Don commends his sponsors for making it possible.

“The collection can be maintained only with the help of our kind supporters like Titanic Belfast and, of course, the ongoing indulgence of the film and TV studios.”

The Alien war connection.

John Gorman and Gary Gillies, who ran Alien War, hosted the ‘Movie Magic’ exhibition of movie props and costumes in Glasgow.
Don Jack purchased a bunch of items on display at that exhibition.