During the fall 2016 semester, I had the opportunity to fulfil my internship requirement at the Wilson College Hankey Center and Archives. My task for the semester consisted of photographing and digitally cataloging the Antiquities Collection currently on view at the Hankey Center and Archives. I learned how to professionally photograph antiquities with a photo box and lighting kit. Then I uploaded and catalogued the images to Shared Shelf and created an Omeka exhibit. The chance to work with and handle objects of such cultural value was exceptional. I was repeatedly overcome with a deep admiration for these remarkable cultures whose objects have survived thousands of years. Over the course of the semester I have developed a great love for this charming collection.

Although I at times doubted my abilities to fulfil the learning objectives due to a lack of prior knowledge in photography and antiquities, I am very happy with the appearance of the online exhibits on Artstor, the Shared Shelf Commons, and Wilson’s Omeka page. Much of what I was tasked with required on the job learning, as well as a trial and error approach, and some ingenuity. The friendly, relaxed, and supportive atmosphere at the Hankey Center and Archives suited my hectic schedule and personality well. After many years away from the workforce I was apprehensive about my abilities, however, this internship experience has given me a glimpse into a workplace that I thoroughly enjoyed, as well as more confidence in myself. I highly recommend the Hankey Center and Archives as a place for future interns and will always cherish my time there.

--Annika Dowd '17

Here is a selection of Annika's favorite pieces from her project.

From Left:(1)Tetra Drachma, 186 BCE, Greece. The owl on this small but heavy coin is very charming; (2) Mycenaean Stirrup jar, 1400-1100 BCE. I love this jar because the design is beautiful, the shape unique, the craftsmanship exceptional, and because it is very old; (3) Roman Glass bottles from ca. 200 to 400. Roman glass containers used for cosmetics are stunning both in craftsmanship and design. The blue bottle features a deep, stunning blue, while the colors on the other one are almost iridescent. I wonder how they created these incredible colors; (4) Red-figure skyphos from Greece, 450 BCE. A lovely owl design on a beautifully made cup; (5) Red-figure fish plate from Greece, ca 400- 300 BCE. Fish plates are some of my favorite ceramics. This one is very charming with beautiful warm colors, simple, yet individualized fish, and a depression for dipping sauce.