The Mahi Whanake Team talk

Kia ora koutou,

ARANZ Wellington Committee and GLAMR Meetup invite you to join us on May 4th for a special talk by the Alexander Turnbull Library Mahi Whanake tīma.

• When: Thursday, May 4th at 5:30pm
• Where: Victoria University, Pipitea Campus, Room RHMZ02 (Mezzanine floor - Rutherford House)
• Cost: FREE

In late 2022, the Mahi Whanake (or the work of development) team was formed at the Alexander Turnbull Library to rapidly process three large and complex collections: John Scott’s architectural records, an accrual to C K Stead’s literary papers, and Shona Rapira Davies’ artist records. The John Scott Collection is the largest of the collections in size and scope. Scott (1924-1992) of Te Arawa, Taranaki, and Pākehā descent was known for his unique buildings that often incorporated ideas from Māori architecture. When the Scott whānau deposited the John Scott archive of architectural records with the Alexander Turnbull Library in 2020 it was estimated to contain around 10,000 individual plans, as well as project files, business correspondence, and photographs. In addition to storing this material safely for perpetuity, the Library has made a commitment to describe and digitise this collection.

This presentation will discuss the experience of the team at the beginning of this project, as we work out how we (as non-architects) can organise, describe, provide conservation treatment, and digitise such a large volume of material in a way that is accessible and most useful to researchers, family members, or anyone with an interest in Scott’s work.

The talk will be about 45 minutes, with time for questions and networking afterwards.

Light snacks and refreshments (non-alcoholic) will be provided.

Hope to see you there!

ARANZ Wellington Committee and GLAMR Meetup