Events Calendar

Monday 18th November, 6pm
City Gallery Wellington, Civic Square
Free entry

Elizabeth Cox

In 1919 the Christchurch Star reported there were a number of ‘girls’ in New Zealand architect’s offices, studying to make architecture their profession. The newspaper concluded: ‘naturally a capable woman architect should prove invaluable’. Who were these ‘girls’ in architect’s offices, and why were some inspired to believe they would add value to the profession?

This talk by Wellington architectural historian Elizabeth Cox will profile the careers of New Zealand women architects who studied to be architects between 1900-1950, and examine their contribution to the architectural history of New Zealand – from the Edwardian to modernist era.

While completing her MA in New Zealand history at Victoria University of Wellington Elizabeth discovered her passion for social and women’s history. Over the course of her career she has worked at the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, the National Trust in the United Kingdom and as a historian for the Waitangi Tribunal.  Elizabeth is now the director of Bay Heritage Consultants, a Wellington firm that specialises in uncovering the social and architectural history of buildings and their occupants. Their research has included some of New Zealand’s most important heritage buildings, including the St James Theatre, Weir House and Old St Paul’s in Wellington.
 

City Talks is an ongoing series initiated by the New Zealand Institute of Architects Wellington Branch and presented in partnership with City Gallery Wellington and WCC Venues Subsidy. Its purpose is to foster discussion about architecture for a broader audience in a city that cares to openly discuss ideas relevant to our future.

The talk will be followed by refreshments.

NZILA CPD points apply