Initial Design Sketches...

The Archivist's chosen site

Located amongst the mysteries of the woodland, the archivist has a prominent position which emphasises her importance as the storyteller however being hidden by the trees ensures her presence is not dominating. The discovery of the dwelling will be to some extent an adventure of its own before approaching the cavern of tales and legends.

Initial concept models representing the Archivist's habitat

I wanted to represent the process of a story through the structure of the tree - the roots being the origin of an idea which meets another idea to form a developed idea. Gradually the structure develops into the main body of the story - initially appearing simple, however as you step in nearer to the tree the complexity of the stories, the meanings and morals moulded within the bark gradually reveals itself as quite a complex structure.

The branches represent the story telling and how tales can evolve and spread even though the main initial idea of the story is the same for each branch. Natural elements like the sun, the wind and the rain all contribute to the development of each branch's beauty and most importantly the spreading of the story through producing the seeds which represent the new stories which are created through the joining of the original branches and the elements.

The Role of the Archivist

My role within the community is the Storykeeper. My passion in life is the ­art of storytelling – so much can be learnt from exploring the world of fiction. It has the power to bring a wealth of knowledge, heritage and most importantly excitement into every individual’s life.

I came to this community wanting to find a sanctuary to share and store my collection of tales. The expanse of books that I have gathered over the years was becoming unbearable for my little old cottage – particularly following the closing of local libraries has left me with.

Not only can I now provide my fellow habitants with legends of our unique and magical landscapes, but I can also help archive their tales and experiences. So many interesting people come to explore these landscapes and often they will come across my cavern of literate treasures. Although I may sometimes come across as being slightly too inquisitive and eccentric, I love nothing more than to hear their stories and try to advise them through passing on advice from my favourite novels and tales.

The transfer of knowledge is a fundamental part of each role here in the community, however it is my role to encourage this sharing of wisdom between the appropriate persons. I have also taken on the conventional responsibilities of an archivist through collecting, organising and controlling records to help our inhabitants find and understand any information which could benefit the life or well-being of each individual. I have therefore gotten to know each of my neighbours on a very personal level.