St. Paul’s Collegiate School, New Zealand, has taken an innovative approach to bring the school’s rich history and artistic accomplishments to life - a digitised version of their art collection, which is now displayed on the school’s new community platform. Not only does this digital collection provide a means for stories to be preserved, shared, and celebrated, but it also offers an interactive and immersive experience that connects alumni across time and distance.

St Paul’s Art Collection

It all began when an Old Collegian, David Hill (1964-1968), loaned four artworks to the school, sparking the development of the St. Paul's Art Collection which has become an integral part of the school's creative heritage. Today, the collection comprises 35 works by professional artists who are Collegians, such as Gary Schofield, as well as pieces commissioned to reflect the school's morals and values. This creative heritage is further strengthened by the annual folio board exhibition, where senior visual art students share their creations with the wider community; Year 13 students contribute their artwork to the school, solidifying the bond between past and present students. The exhibition and the school's Lander Centre serve as a focal point for alumni and the community to engage with art, culture, and collective memories, bridging generations and fostering pride and connection among St. Paul's alumni.

From physical to digital

St. Paul's has harnessed the power of their new digital platform to transcend the limitations of their physical art collection, expanding its reach to a wider audience. Through the St. Paul's community website, all of the school's artworks have been digitised and made accessible to the entire community, including alumni, so that these remarkable artworks can be enjoyed and appreciated by all. Members of St. Paul's community have access to a virtual gallery, showcasing the art collection, and each artwork is accompanied by a concise description that provides insights into the piece and the artist behind it. In addition, the digital archives of the art collection offer a practical way for alumni to actively participate in its development; a short form on the digital platform prompts viewers to contribute to the collection through loans or donations, supporting the ongoing growth and preservation of St. Paul's artistic heritage. 

The digital platform also creates an opportunity for alumni who feel a strong connection to St. Paul's to actively engage with the school's artistic legacy - they now have the option to lend their own artworks or make donations to the collection, enriching the diverse range of artworks that comprise the St. Paul's art collection. This interactive involvement allows alumni to leave their mark and contribute to the continued vibrancy of the collection, cementing their place within the school's artistic heritage.

ToucanTech's all-in-one software is the perfect solution for your school community to reminisce and stay connected to their alma mater. With its intuitive gallery feature, you can showcase not only artworks, but also a vast collection of photos capturing special moments within your school community. From nostalgic class photos to memorable events, ToucanTech provides a visual journey that brings back cherished memories, such as St Paul’s Collegiate School’s Heritage Trail archives. Speak to a member of the team to find out more.

To discover additional strategies for involving your community through digital archives, check out this article from St. John’s College, Sydney, featuring an engaging 'where are they now' alumni profile series. Click here to read more.