Collectors as Guardians of National Artifacts

ABSTRACT

In New Zealand various modest household artifacts that were produced locally in the 1940s and 1950s have become sought-after collectibles. As resistance to the homogenization brought about by globalization, “kiwiana” collectibles are valued for their distinctive “New Zealandness.” Some collectors construct households in which they can immerse themselves in kiwiana, effectively creating private museums of national artifacts. Their homes become showcases for the nation's history of locally manufactured domestic goods. While the collectors rejoice in the quirky charm of their lovingly assembled artifacts, they also claim a role of guardianship of items that might otherwise have been lost to the nation. The research demonstrates that a significant and visible part of national identity preservation in New Zealand is being deliberately and enthusiastically undertaken by private collectors.

KEYWORDS:

• private collectors
• home
• domestic environment
• New Zealand
• distinction