The project is funded by Getty as part of the Paper Project initiative and has the following goals: 

• Raise awareness of RBGE’s extraordinary art collection - Identify and share relevant key works as case studies to explore the collections.
• Knowledge transfer - Consider ways in which historic natural history collections of works on paper encompass, represent, and safeguard knowledge. Explore the curatorial challenges (cataloguing, digitisation, display, etc) relating to natural history art collections. Generate greater understanding of the collections and their role as a resource addressing current cultural and environmental concerns.
• New Perspectives - Situate the project within the broader decolonizing practice of museum collections.
• Stimulate new approaches - Recognise the game changing potential of digital platforms for both knowledge and care of collections and the opportunity to amend silences and absences from the records.
• Cultural exchange – The project demonstrates RBGEs commitment to fostering cultural exchange through the creating of a long-term network for exchanging best practice, fostering collaboration and mutual support.
• Increased Visibility – The project will attract media coverage and attention, raising awareness of both the host organisation and those involved in the project, positioning them as significant contributors to the international dialogue around works on paper and natural history collections.

The Programme Structure

• 2 x digital pre-workshop seminars.
• Fully-funded residency at RBGE in Edinburgh from Saturday 5th to Sunday 13th October 2024 with immersive experiences and behind-the-scenes visits.
• Seminars on topics including botanical art techniques, conservation, and curation strategies.
• Visits to other collections in Scotland, e.g. the Hunterian Museum in Glasgow.

Benefits for Participants

The workshop will benefit the participants in a number of ways:

• Cultural Exchange - Provide an opportunity to network with individuals from diverse backgrounds who are facing similar challenges, leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation of different approaches and contexts.
• Networking Opportunities – Participants have the chance to build valuable connections and networks with fellow curators, researchers and artists from across the globe, opening up potential collaboration and future opportunities in the field. The opportunity to be part of cross-regional and cross-cultural dialogue, offering a platform for meaningful exchange and collaboration
• Exposure to new artworks – With exceptional access to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s internationally important collections of botanical art, participants will experience a wide range of artworks, including those not readily accessible in their home countries, broadening and deepening their knowledge.
• International Platform - The project will provide a platform for participants to showcase their own projects, institutions and practice to an international audience, gaining exposure and recognition.
• Professional Development – Participants will be able to engage in workshops, discussions and seminars with experts in the field enhances professional skills, knowledge and critical thinking.
• Inspiration and Creativity - The experience of a different cultural setting helps to promote personal growth, increased adaptability and a broader world view.
• Cross Cultural Learning - The creation of an ongoing sense of community with other participants, speakers and the RBGE community fostering insight into how other organisations work.

Long lasting impact: Our ambition is that connections made during the project will be continued beyond the workshop and lead to ongoing collaborations and lasting collegiate friendships.