For my first Substack, I am really pleased to share that I was chosen as a Maker-Creator Fellow Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (@winterthurmuse)! I will be continuing my investigations into the material culture of dolls by diving into their collections – museum, library and archives. What a way to kick off my sabbatical.
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I previously shared my fellowship leave news on my blog. Last year, I was awarded tenure in my faculty librarian role. That term is effective this August, at which time you are eligible for leave. I got the great news that my application was approved this April. I’ve been counting down the days and fairly vibrating with energy that this coming Tuesday is my last official day of work.

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As a lover of historical fiction, the idea of staying in a cottage on the grounds at Winterthur tickles me to no end. I am terrified and delighted by the prospect in equal measure. Prepare for lots of stories showing strolls through manicured gardens, whilst in the stacks and taking a magnifying glass to dolly couture. I also have grand plans to do some sewing and knitting in the considerable downtime available to me. This fellowship is not just a fantastic opportunity for my scholarship and career, it also represents both parenting and personal milestones. My children are at the age where such a trip is possible with relatively little planning. A real gift.

After previously enjoying short solo travel, to Florida, London and Missouri, for work and both a week long writer’s retreat and one at A Gathering of Stitches in Maine, these four weeks will be the longest I’ve been away from home since my study abroad trip to Senegal 2+ decades ago before I become a parent.

I am grateful and hopeful and prepared. More, much more, soon.
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Image credit: Winterthur Collection
Object Number – 2014.0029.004 A-K
Object Name – Doll
Category – Toys and Games
Place of Origin – United States; North America
Date – 1840-1860

#Winterthur
#ResearchAtWinterthur
#MakerCreatorFellowship