North American Woodlands Textiles (from c.1840) in the S.D.S. Huyghue Collection

Assess the content and identify the importance of the textiles within the North American Woodlands in the S.D.S. Huyghue Collection.

A detailed analysis, examination and comparison of textiles in the S.D.S. Huyghue collection, collected circa 1840 from the American Woodlands area in North America (in this instance from Canada). The project could include a survey of the entire textile holdings in the Huyghue collection, or focus on a specific subset of the material within it, such as those related to the Mi'kmaq people. The researcher would examine the processes of manufacture and conduct detailed analyses of techniques, materials and designs. Comparisons between textiles from across the North American Woodlands in the collection would provide a basis for the identification of different cultural forms associated with specific cultural groups, in particular the Mi’kmaq. Some comparisons could be made with other holdings of similar material in Australia and overseas, depending on the scope of the project.

Improved knowledge and understanding of the textiles as individual objects and as an overall collection.

Participate in research development on a component of the collection that has been held by Museum Victoria for over 100 years, yet has had little research on it. The project would assist in documenting the collection, providing an invaluable opportunity for hands-on, professional museum and research skills development (e.g. cultural database experience,  instruction on how to handle museum collections, and the chance to work with a range of museum professionals behind the scenes).

Undertaking a relevant degree in Textiles, Design, History, Anthropology, Archaeology, Museum Studies, Material Culture, Conservation or other relevant research experience.